Watch Cuadecuc, vampir

Cuadecuc, Vampir is a unique and experimental film that offers a behind-the-scenes look at the making of Count Dracula starring Christopher Lee. Shot in black and white, this 1971 film is directed by Pere Portabella and offers a haunting and surreal depiction of the horror genre. In this avant-garde affair, we see the making of Count Dracula come to life in a way that is both eerie and fascinating. The film serves up an array of cinematic experiments with a nod to both Luis Bunuel and Jean Cocteau. It's a mix of documentary-style footage of the cast and crew at work interspersed with horror film sequences.

The film is named after the location where the shoot took place: a rain-soaked Catalan forest called 'Cuadecuc'. The rather formidable name is derived from the Catalan word 'cua' meaning tail and 'decuc' meaning end. The choice of location adds to the air of unease pervading the film.

The cast of Cuadecuc, Vampir includes some of the most celebrated actors of their time. Christopher Lee, Soledad Miranda, and Herbert Lom star in the film, with Lee famously appearing as Count Dracula once again. Lom, who plays Van Helsing in the film, offers a memorable performance. Lom is no stranger to horror himself, having starred in the Pink Panther series, the Hammer films and the Pink Elephant in 1975.

The film offers a stark and shadowy presentation, using contrasting light and darkness to create dramatic effects. Like a series of photographs, we are presented with a series of scenes with peculiar angles, contrasting images and explicit visual effects. Often surreal, the visual language of Cuadecuc, Vampir is defined by its stark black and white cinematography, adding depth and mystery to the scenes.

At times, the film can feel like a dream. The music, composed by Carles Santos, sets an eerie and surreal atmosphere that compliments the visuals perfectly. At certain times, we’re presented with only the sound of breathing, or silence, which adds to the tension of the film.

Perhaps the most notable aspect of Cuadecuc, Vampir is its use of shadows. The film is shot mostly in silhouette, with the backdrop painted black, which creates a limitless void at the edge of the frame. The beautiful cinematography and haunting silhouettes leave a lasting impression on the viewer, and linger in the imagination.

Despite the lack of narrative structure, the film manages to tell an enigmatic and haunting tale. There's a sense of disorientation as the scenes jump from one to the other, and we’re not always sure what's happening in a given moment. However, this feeling of unease adds to the surrealist atmosphere of the film, and makes for a truly unique movie.

Ultimately, Cuadecuc, Vampir is a fascinating and avant-garde interpretation of the horror genre. It’s a film that pushes the boundaries of what we expect from horror, employing experimentation with light and shadow, sound and music, and the stark visuals painted by dreams. A must-watch for fans of Christopher Lee or anyone interested in a unique and experimental rendition of Count Dracula.