Top class Hammer movie. Peter Cushing's second outing as Van Helsing and David Peel's only vampire role. One of the most beautifully photographed movies ever - Jack Asher at his best and director Terence Fisher in top form. If the bat is a little clunky by modern effects standards, no worry for there is plenty to enjoy here.
Great performances from Cushing and Peel, as mentioned, but also watch out for the acting duel between vetrans Freda Jackson and Martita Hunt
each gives a ripe performance and both are highly memorable. Other performances to look out for are from scene- stealing Miles Malleson as the hypochondriac Dr Tobler and Andree Melly who gave one of the 60's classic vampire images to the screen. Michael Ripper is also there for fans, this time as the scared coach driver.
Cushing's authoratative Van Helsing carries the movie and David Peel's Baron Meinster is an excellent vampire foe - clipped Oxford English, red eyes and hissing vampire attacks. The burning windmill finale was lifted to conclude Tim Burton's SLEEPY HOLLOW which was a tribute to Hammer Films.