Universal Studios Home Entertainment Celebrates the 75th Anniversary of the Two Most Famous Horror Icons of Cinema
'Dracula-75th Anniversary Edition' and 'Frankenstein-75th Anniversary Edition'
Digitally Remastered Classics on DVD September 26, 2006
Two of the most enduring icons from the first golden era of horror films return to commemorate a historic milestone when "Dracula-75th Anniversary Edition" and "Frankenstein-75th Anniversary Edition" come to DVD September 26, 2006 from Universal Studios Home Entertainment. Bela Lugosi and Boris Karloff made movie history in 1931 with their respective roles as the screen's most ominous vampire and the most memorable monster in landmark films that established two legendary legacies and launched a multitude of imitators. Upon their release, "Dracula" and "Frankenstein" shocked audiences and inspired an astonishing new genre of moviemaking, introducing fans to dark, supernatural themes that continue to fascinate filmgoers. The two all-new, digitally remastered versions of the classic original chillers include an array of bonus features that make them the perfect treat for any Halloween celebration.
The "Dracula-75th Anniversary Edition" and the "Frankenstein-75th Anniversary Edition" are part of Universal Studio's Home Entertainment prestigious Legacy Series, honoring some of the best and most beloved films in history. Each two-disc set is priced at $26.98.
"Dracula-75th Anniversary Edition"
"The Dracula-75th Anniversary Edition" stars Bela Lugosi as the terrifying Transylvanian count with a thirst for blood. In addition to the all-new digitally remastered film, this very special collectors' edition features loads of extras including:
* Lugosi: The Dark Prince - A tribute to the immortal Bela Lugosi with interviews, film highlights, insights into his relationships with "Dracula" director Tod Browning and horror rivals Boris Karloff and Lon Chaney, plus the impact of Lugosi's signature role on his film career. * "Dracula" - The complete Spanish version of the timeless tale, also made in 1931, with a special introduction by its star, Lupita Tovar. * The Road to Dracula - An original documentary by film historian David J. Skal, tracing the development of the Dracula legend in movies. * Features interviews with actors and filmmakers from the original movie. * Universal Horror Documentary, narrated by Kenneth Branagh, takes you on a fascinating chronological journey through the making of the most memorable monster films of all time. * Original Score written by Philip Glass, one of the most influential composers of the 20th century, and performed by the legendary Kronos Quartet. * Feature Commentary by film historian David J. Skal. * Feature Commentary by Steve Haberman, screenwriter of "Dracula: Dead and Loving It," Mel Brooks' hilarious satire of the Dracula myth. * Monster Tracks - While watching the film, viewers can elect to see interactive pop-ups with obscure, interesting and amusing facts about the making of Dracula. * The original 1931 Theatrical Trailer "Frankenstein-75th Anniversary Edition"
Boris Karloff became a star playing The Monster in what has often been called the greatest horror film of all time. "Frankenstein-75th Anniversary Edition" includes comprehensive historical information about the movie that launched the Hollywood horror craze, including short films and wide-ranging commentary from classic movie experts, as well as some of the people involved in making the film. These special features include:
* Karloff: The Gentle Monster - A half hour documentary tribute to horror icon Boris Karloff, tracing his career using film highlights and interviews, and examining his relationships with "Frankenstein" director James Whale and fellow actor Bela Lugosi. * The "Frankenstein" Files: How Hollywood Made a Monster - A documentary hosted by film historian David J. Skal discusses the influence of Mary Shelley's Gothic novel on Hollywood horror films. Features interviews with an array of filmmakers, writers and actors, including Boris Karloff's daughter, Sara. * Universal Horror Documentary, narrated by Kenneth Branagh, takes you on a fascinating chronological journey through the making of the most memorable monster films of all time. * Boo! - This short film, made in 1932, takes a tongue-in-cheek look at classic monster movies. Includes clips from "Frankenstein," "Dracula" and more. * Monster Tracks - While watching the film, viewers can elect to see interactive pop-ups presenting obscure, interesting and amusing facts about the making of "Frankenstein." * Feature Commentary by film historians Rudy Behlmer, Christopher Frayling and David J. Skal * Frankenstein Archives * The original 1931 Theatrical Trailer SYNOPSES "Dracula"
Starring Bela Lugosi in a career-making role, the original 1931 version of Bram Stoker's groundbreaking vampire tale is still one of the most chilling films ever made. An all-new digitally remastered picture that makes the most of director Tod Browning's atmospheric settings as Dracula journeys from a creepy Transylvanian castle to the elegant drawing rooms of London in search of fresh blood. Horror specialist Browning created an eerie and unsettling fable that continues to chill viewers 75 years later.
"Frankenstein"
Perhaps the best-known horror film ever made, "Frankenstein" boasts an unexpectedly compassionate performance by Boris Karloff as the screen's most memorable monster. Dr. Frankenstein (Colin Clive), the original mad scientist, assembles a creature from exhumed body parts in the screen version of Mary Shelley's nightmarish novel. His ghoulish invention escapes his control with tragic and terrifying results.
"DRACULA" CAST & FILMMAKERS Director: Tod Browning Written By: Tod Browning, Louis Bromfield, Louis Stevens Based on a Story by: Bram Stoker Produced By: Carl Laemmle, Jr., Tod Browning Director of Photography: Karl Freund Production Designer: John Hoffman, Herman Rosse Film Editors: Milton Carruth, Maurice Pivar Costume Designer: Ed Ware, Vera West Music By: Philip Glass Cast: Bela Lugosi, Helen Chandler, David Manners, Dwight Frye, Edward Van Sloan TECHNICAL INFORMATION DVD Street Date: September 26, 2006 Pre-Order Close: August 22, 2006 Copyright: 2006 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved. Price: $26.98 SRP Selection Number: 31022 (Full Frame) Running Time: 1 Hour 15 Minutes Layers: DVD-9 Aspect Ratio: Full Frame (1.33:1) Rating: Not Rated Technical Info: English Dolby Digital 2.0 Mono; English SDH; French and Spanish Subtitles "FRANKENSTEIN" CAST & FILMMAKERS Director: James Whale Written By: Francis Edward Forough, Garett Fort Based on a Story by: Mary Shelley Produced By: Carl Laemmle, Jr. Director of Photography: Arthur Edeson Film Editor: Clarence Kolster Music By: Bernhard Kaun Cast: Boris Karloff, Colin Clive, Mae Clarke, John Boles, Edward Van Sloan, Dwight Frye TECHNICAL INFORMATION DVD Street Date: September 26, 2006 Pre-Order Close: August 22, 2006 Copyright: 2006 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved. Price: $26.98 SRP Selection Number: 21021 Running Time: 1 Hour 11 Minutes Layers: DVD-9 Aspect Ratio: Full Frame (1.33:1) Rating: Not Rated Technical Info: Dolby Digital 2.0 Mono; English SDH; French and Spanish Subtitles
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