Tag: Indie

Has there ever been a movie you’d love to see, only to realize you never will? Welcome to Batman Dracula, produced and directed by Andy Warhol.

From what little information there is about the movie, it’s set in parts of New York, including “The Factory” (Warhol’s studio). According to Warhol, the black-and-white silent film was an “homage” to Batman. Too bad he never got permission from DC Comics. to use their character.

Apparently the movie was screened during his art exhibits, but since Warhol’s death it’s been considered “lost.” Clips can be found online, including the one below (available until it’s copyright claimed by DC and/or– ironically– the Andy Warhol Museum). Music by The Velvet Underground and Nico was added later, as the movie was filmed without sound.

Based on the clip, there’s some impressive “cape-ography,” in this movie, and Dracula has good, intense screen presence. Jack Smith’s performance might just be the most underrated depiction of Dracula ever. You can also get a good feel for Warhol’s experimental style of film-making.

I’m not a huge Warhol fan, but I do think he was interesting; I’m curious to see more of his Dracula, as well as his version of Batman. In the film, Dracula is supposedly Batman’s “biggest fear,” and since the same actor played both characters this tidbit gives us an intriguing hint at Warhol’s approach. The title also suggests that they’re two sides of the same coin.

What movie do you wish you could see, but never will (it doesn’t have to already exist)? Share in the comments…

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Further Reading

Batman Dracula: Andy Warhol’s Eccentric Experimental Film

IMDb: Batman Dracula (1964)

Batman Dracula (partially found Andy Warhol film; 1964)

Cheers,

Aspasía S. Bissas