It’s a new twist to a classic Universal Legend in the latest Renfield. After years of living as Dracula’s servant, Renfield realizes that there is more to life. Though a series of helpful meeting is finds the strength to pull away. The only question now is will he be strong enough when Dracula comes back.
At an hour 33 minute runtime, Renfield mirrors comedy and horror in a unique way. Ultimately the casting choice gives a lot to the ebb and flow of the film. With Nicolas Cage as Dracula as well as Warm Bodies’ Nicholas Hoult in his struggle to be good or obey his master’s every evil command. That being said, Hoult does a great job of balancing both. In a lot of ways, he uses the same mannerisms in order to create that same dynamic conflict. Additionally, the film did have a slight romance flaring between Hoult and Crazy Rich Asian’s Awkwafina, who played the flirtatious cop whom Renfield finds himself giving his own witness to Dracula’s wicked faults. The once encounter leads to an all out manhunt to save everyone who knows Renfield’s story.
All in all, the movie does have some intriguing elements, though one would not recommend for the young or easily susceptible. That being said, it does contain quite a bit of graphic violence including bodies blowing up as well as adult language.
It did come out in theaters April 14 and is currently playing in a theater near you. Viewer discretion is strongly advised.