“Caleb Landry Jones Shines in Gothic ‘Dracula’ by ‘Fifth Element’ Director”
Caleb Landry Jones delivers a captivating performance in the new film adaptation of Dracula, directed by Luc Besson. Released by Vertical on February 6, 2026, this fresh take on Bram Stoker’s classic gothic novel blends elements of romance and horror.
Film Overview
Set against the backdrop of 19th-century Paris, Besson’s adaptation opens 400 years earlier, depicting the not-yet-undead Prince Vladimir of Wallachia (portrayed by Jones) as he engages in battle after enjoying a tender morning with Princess Elisabeta (played by Zoë Bleu). Their affectionate connection sets the stage for a tragic turn of events when Elisabeta is murdered during an Ottoman Empire assault.
Plot Details
- Title: Dracula
- Director: Luc Besson
- Release Date: February 6, 2026
- Main Cast: Caleb Landry Jones, Zoë Bleu, Christoph Waltz
In a bid for vengeance, Prince Vladimir vows to become a vampire, adopting the name Dracula. This transformative decision initiates a story filled with a mix of dark romance and gothic elements. Besson’s vision attempts to reframe Dracula as a romantic antihero, albeit falling short of creating a genuinely engaging narrative.
Performance Highlights
Jones’ portrayal of Dracula is marked by a delightful blend of joy and depravity, capturing viewers’ attention even as the scripted material falters. There are strong emotional beats between him and Bleu, reflecting a believable love. However, as the plot progresses, the film struggles to maintain its initial intimacy, overshadowed by pop-comic horror action sequences.
Comparative Analysis
Notably, Besson’s rendition often draws comparisons to Robert Eggers’ upcoming film, Nosferatu. Both films evoke similar thematic elements but vary significantly in execution. While Besson leans towards style with vibrant visuals, Eggers appears to focus on a more atmospheric storytelling approach.
Supporting Cast and Themes
- Christoph Waltz features as a priest hunting Dracula, providing intellectual conversations that touch on moral ambiguity.
- The film lasts over two hours, attempting to blend romance with horror, yet fails to deliver on both fronts.
Despite the intriguing premise and some standout performances, Besson’s Dracula is criticized for its narrative shortcomings. With over 200 adaptations already gracing the screen, this version adds little to the legacy, offering an experience that’s engaging yet ultimately forgettable.
Final Thoughts
Overall, while Caleb Landry Jones shines in a unique portrayal, Besson’s Dracula struggles to captivate audiences. Despite its vibrant aesthetics and romantic undertones, the film lacks the necessary depth and suspense to leave a lasting impression. As it currently stands, this adaptation of Dracula serves as a cinematic occasion but does not fully reignite interest in the iconic tale.
