Van Helsing

The latest gothic horror movie released on VHS/DVD this holiday season is Van Helsing.  Directed and written by Stephen Sommers, this movie will delight fans with special effects (Industrial Light & Magic) not available when Nosferatu first appeared on film.  Horror fans are familiar with the Dracula storyline, however this story has a new twist.  Instead of hunting down vampires with the usual wooden stake, Gabriel Van Helsing (Hugh Jackman) employs other equally deadly methods to rid the Romanian countryside of evil.  With the voluptuous Anna Valerious (Kate Bekinsale) by his side, Van Helsing sets out to destroy Count Dracula (Richard Roxburgh) as well as his many sensual wives.  The two also discover that thousands of baby vampires are about to hatch and they must destroy them before they take to flight.

The CGI monsters may turn off viewers as these graphics are still in the evolutionary stage.  However if you enjoyed the Hulk or Underworld you will probably enjoy this movie as well.  Viewers will also want a sequel to this film to explain more about Van Helsing’s mysterious past and his ties to the secular group that employs him. 

This movie features non-stop action, suspense, humor and a tiny bit of romance.  Those who purchase the DVD will enjoy extra features including outtakes, commentaries by the director and actors, Explore Dracula’s Castle and more.  Those who own an Xbox console can also play the first level of the Van Helsing game with this DVD.