*Dracula Untold* tells a gloomy story of a leader’s sacrifice to save his people. At the start of the twentieth century, the novel follows Prince Vlad Tepes as he wins against the approaching Turks. When every choice is hopeless, Vlad turns to forbidden magic to protect what’s his and ends up changing into a person feared and felt for. The atmosphere is anxious, making it easy for viewers to notice the hazy morality and the effects of sacrifice.
All the actors are strong, especially Luke Evans, who excellently shows both the love, duty and pain that Vlad experiences. The film’s look and its photography increase the feeling of danger and grandeur and the dark and gloomy theme highlights the messages of sacrifice and power. Both the action and the music in the film help viewers notice the weight of Vlad’s actions.
I found most interesting how the film looked into the way heroes behave and the ethical grayness of those in charge. We learn here that looking after our loved ones can lead to hard decisions, even if they are made by monsters. It focuses on a fresh aspect of vampire legend by touching on how easy it is for a hero to become a monster. In the end, I think this film provides a deeper look at what it actually means to hold power and to sacrifice for it.
