A classic gothic gem cut too short but still worth a watch! NBC’s Dracula (2013–2014) was reimagining of Bram Stoker’s classic tale, set against the backdrop of Victorian London. Though it only lasted one season, it left a striking impression on me, especially from it’s atmospheric visuals, compelling performances, and bold storytelling choices, particularly how it strayed slightly away from the source material but it still made sense and fitted perfectly!

It’s worth starting off with the depiction of Victorian London. I have a passion for history and one of my favourite is my home city’s journey through the Victorian times. The city wasn’t just a backdrop; it was a living, breathing presence that shaped the story. The gaslit streets, fog-drenched alleys, and grand architecture gave the show a cinematic quality that elevated it far beyond typical television fare. London was also depicted in the age of scientific revolution, with the invention of electricity that Dracula himself invests himself into. Seeing the marriage of Victorian + Science on the screen made me instantly ecstatic and it’s one of the many things I remember fondly from the show.

The performances were another highlight, with Jonathan Rhys Meyers delivering an alluring portrayal of Dracula. He balanced aristocratic charm with raw fury, shifting seamlessly between vulnerability and menace. I’m sure most of us were first introduced to Jonathan in his role in Bend it like Beckham – a classic! But I also enjoyed his performance as King Henry VIII in The Tudors series, albeit that he didn’t get fatter in the series, I was little disappointed in that! But in Dracula, he really really outshines and delivers lines so well yet so hauntingly.

It’s worth mentioning the other cast members such as Jessica De Gouw who brought intelligence and emotional depth to Mina Murray, grounding the supernatural drama with human stakes. I’ve seen Jessica in the Arrow TV show portraying Huntress which was another favourite character of mine. Meanwhile, Thomas Kretschmann offered a morally complex take on Van Helsing, far removed from the archetypal monster hunter.

Yet for all its artistry, the series was cancelled after just ten episodes. I was livid and recall tweeting at NBC! Storylines hinted at grand arcs that never reached their conclusion, and the promise of deeper character exploration was left unfulfilled. It’s hard not to feel sadness when revisiting the show, knowing that its ambition was stifled. However, it’s still worth watching the 1st season for how well it was put together.