Written and directed by Woody Allen, Celebrity (1998) is a black and white treatise on Fame. The plot surrounds a couple who go on different paths of success after a divorce. The cinematography is excellent and the comedic/dramatic performances are great featuring lots of famous faces, including Kenneth Branagh, Charlize Theron, Winona Ryder, Leonardo DiCaprio, Hank Azaria, Judy Davis, Melanie Griffith, Famke Janssen, Bebe Neuwirth and Joe Mantegna.
Directed by Nicholas Hytner, and written by Arthur Miller (based on his own classic 1953 play), The Crucible (1996) is an allegory of 1950's McCarthyism and the related blacklist. Set in 1692 Salem, Massachusetts Colony, the semi-fictionalized story focuses on the mania and paranoia surrounding the unfounded witchcraft accusations and wrongful hangings during the infamous Salem Witch Trials. After young harlot Abigail Williams and a group of young girls are caught enacting a ritualized dance in the woods by the local Reverend, all hell breaks loose… and a demonic examination/inquisition is called, with petty grievances leading to false accusations amongst the Salem townsfolk looking to save themselves from the noose. Wonderful set and costume design shows careful attention to 17th Century historic detail. Daniel Day-Lewis is great as John Proctor. Winona Ryder is enchanting as Abigail Williams, the source of the witch-mania. The supporting cast is good as well, including Paul Scofield, Jeffrey Jones, Rob Campbell and Joan Allen.
Directed by Francis Ford Coppola, Bram Stoker's Dracula (1992) is a sumptuous version of the classic Gothic Horror tale that is mostly faithful to the original text. Full of bold visual style and strong vampire effects, the film is a feast for the senses. The historical atmosphere is well-conveyed, capturing both Transylvania and London, from the 15th and 19th Centuries. Gary Oldman is spectacular as the immortal Vlad Dracula, aging from old to young and back again, from man to monster. Winona Ryder is sexy and alluring as the focus of his love. Anthony Hopkins is great as Van Helsing. Tom Waits is crazy as Renfield. Keneau Reeves, though miscast, does an okay job as well. Bram Stoker's Dracula is a modern classic.
Gary Oldman: Bram Stoker's Dracula
Dracula: Bram Stoker's Dracula
Gary Oldman and Winona Ryder: Bram Stoker's Dracula
Dracula: Bram Stoker's Dracula
Gary Oldman and Winona Ryder: Bram Stoker's Dracula
Vlad the Impaler: Bram Stoker's Dracula
Gary Oldman and Winona Ryder: Bram Stoker's Dracula
