Representations of Vlad Tepes in Western Media: Dracula Untold (2014)

Dracula Untold (2014)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0829150/?ref_=nv_sr_1

In this movie Vlad Tepes is presented as a noble king desperately seeking ways through which to protect the subjects of his kingdom from the invading Turks. The image of the Romanian vaivode is once again mixed with that of Dracula, however in this iteration the character has become something of an anti-hero on account of the dark nature of his powers, although he has all the virtues of a proper hero who is willing to make the ultimate sacrifice, that of his soul, for the power to protect his loved ones, his people and his kingdom.

History and fantasy are mixed together to deliver a new interpretation of this iconic figure, and a new origin. This time the acquirement of his vampire powers occurring before the loss of his wife and is a self-chosen destiny as a means for fighting the Ottoman invasion.

The movie depicts the Turkish invasion of Romania and Vlad the Impaler’s attempt to stop them. And as stated earlier the movie tries to depict him as an anti-hero due to his dark powers however this creates holes in his character since he is shown as being virtuous and altruistic since in exchange for these powers he sacrifices his soul all for the purpose of protecting those he holds dear. Thus unlike other Dracula movies here we see the compassionate side of the vampire, making him more human than other iterations.

This Dracula appears more like a new interpretation for a new generation of vampire fans, while still providing some historical context for the character creating an origin story, as is very popular of late, for the much beloved character.