UNIVERSAL MONSTERS: DRACULA #1, from Image Comics on 10/25/23, draws spirit, inspiration, and the classically creepy charm from one of Universal Studios most famous monsters.
The Details
- Written by: James Tynion IV
- Art by: Martin Simmonds
- Colors by: Martin Simmonds
- Letters by: Rus Wooton
- Cover art by: Martin Simmonds (cover A)
- Comic Rating: Teen
- Cover price: $4.99
- Release date: October 25, 2023
Is UNIVERSAL MONSTERS: DRACULA #1 Good?
In the interests of full disclosure, we are big horror fans. Taken a step further, we’re also massive Dracula snobs. If you get Draula wrong, we’ll know it, and you’ll get an earful. In UNIVERSAL MONSTERS: DRACULA #1, does James Tynion IV get Dracula right or wrong? Fang-fully, he does *ahem*
Tynion’s script is a relatively faithful adaptation of the Universal Studios version of Dracula, directed by Tod Browning. In the Universal version, set closer to the start of the 20th century, begins with Dr. Seward interviewing a blood-obsessed Renfield in an insane asylum after Renfield was arrested for the murder of every sailor aboard the Vesta on the return trip to England from Transylvania. Little do Seward and his cast of friends and family know that Renfield is the harbinger of a much darker and hungrier evil.
Given that this series is a direct adaptation of the 1931 film, you may wonder how it differs from or directly copies the film. Overall, UNIVERSAL MONSTERS: DRACULA #1 is a stripped-down adaptation that draws from the same characters, setting, and even dialog but doesn’t feel like a one-for-one copy. It looks and feels like the same source but different enough in the visual atmosphere to stand on its own.
What’s great about UNIVERSAL MONSTERS: DRACULA #1? If you love Dracula and/or love the 1931 film, you’ll be well and truly pleased with this comic. Simmond’s art gives Dracula an omnipresent grip on the story as it progresses, giving the monster more power and presence than the film could. As a film adaptation, this is as good as it gets.
What’s not so great about UNIVERSAL MONSTERS: DRACULA #1? In this first issue, Renfield is really the star of the show. That’s not necessarily bad, but Dracula is established as a force in the background in this first issue, so the monster doesn’t have a chance to grab you right away as he does in the film.
How’s the art? With all due respect to Tynion, Simmonds is the creative start of this issue. Simmond’s painterly style and suggestive figure work give the visuals an ethereal, dreamlike quality that suits the story perfectly.
Keep scrolling for a closer look at the covers, or Click Here to jump right to the story description with some spoilers.
What’s UNIVERSAL MONSTERS: DRACULA #1 About?
[SPOILERS AHEAD – Click here if you just want the score without spoilers]
We begin with Dr. Seward interviewing Renfield in his padded cell after Renfield was arrested for the murder of the crew of the Vesta. Renfield’s manic behavior indicates a form of induced insanity, further evidenced by his fascination with the blood of lower life forms, such as flies and spiders. Renfield can’t help eating insects and talking about blood while he waits for his mysterious master to arrive.
Later, Jonathan Harker, Mina Seward, and Lucy Westernra enjoy their quiet lives while relishing the gossip spreading around town about Renfied and the doomed Vesta. One day, Mina and Lucy share the latest gossip until Lucy notices a strange man standing in the graveyard near their home.
We conclude the issue with a night hunt, a suggested cure, and cries for salvation.
Keep scrolling for a closer look at preview images of the internal pages, or Click Here to jump right to the score.
Final Thoughts
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UNIVERSAL MONSTERS: DRACULA #1 is a masterful and faithful adaptation of the 1931 classic film. Tynion’s script adapts the source beautifully to match the comic format, but Simmonds’s atmospheric, ethereal art steals the show.
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