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| DAUGHTERS OF DARKNESS (1971) | |
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Stefan,
a British aristocrat with sadistic tendencies, and the beautiful Valerie,
a simple girl, have eloped and are on their way home to break the news to
Stefan's mother. However, Stefan is hesitant to bring his wife to
see his mother as he delays the trip back to England on purpose by making
up stories. The newlyweds decide to stay in an extravagant hotel on
the seaside while Stefan attempts to buy some time. Stefan and
Valerie are the only guests at the hotel besides the flamboyant Countess
Bathory and her seductive secretary since it is off-season. During
the stay the Countess Bathory has taken a liking to the couple and begins
to seduce them both as she begins setting her wicked plan into action.
Daughters of Darkness is a vampire tale with a malevolently chilly and sexually tense atmosphere that haunts the mind with its subtle approach as Kümel avoids the popular approach of vampires. The vampires do not sleep in coffins nor attack the necks of their victims with sharpened elongated teeth. Instead Kümel disguises the threat of evil behind courteous behavior, alluring charm, and vivid gesticulations that become passionately seductive for the characters in the film. In addition, the mise-en-scene is strongly suggestive and vibrant colors are used in order to enhance the bewitching atmosphere that is viewed by the audience. This leaves the viewer with an uneasy, but artistic cinematic experience that selective audiences will appreciate. |
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DIRECTED BY |
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Belgium / Italy |
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| REVIEWED | |
| 4/24/2004 | |
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The Internet Movie Database. |
