This seminal classic from director Tod Browning is one of the most famous horror movies ever made, but by today's standards it is rather talky, stagebound and bloodless, with most of its important chills occurring off-screen. However, it remains the most subtly romantic and highly atmospheric rendition of Bram Stoker's tale about the Transylvanian count, with Browning orchestrating the opening scenes to macabre perfection. Bela Lugosi's star turn (he'd been in the stage version since 1927) is an impressive film debut. A neglected sequel, Dracula's Daughter, followed five years later and subsequently Lugosi never managed to escape from the role.

British estate agent Renfield travels to Transylvania to meet the mysterious Count Dracula, who is interested in leasing a castle in London. After Dracula enslaves Renfield and drives him to insanity, the pair sail to London together and Dracula, a secret vampire, begins preying on London socialites.