Count Yorga, Vampire (1970)

Friday 1 February 2013

Count Yorga, Vampire (1970)

Count Yorga is a better film than it has a right to be. While it was made for next to nothing, it has quite a bit going for it that makes it an enjoyable film. First, it has a decent script with some creative moments cinematically. I won't spoil the surprises but there are a few scenes that show some originality and creativity. Furthermore, it manages to avoid the "hippy" excesses that are so prevalent in films of this era. Kudos to director Bob Kelljan [Scream, Blacula, Scream] for making this film look very good with no money to spend. That's alway the sign of a talented man!

The second thing Yorga has going for it is Robert Quarry [Madhouse, Dr Phibes Rises Again], who plays the vampire Count. He has a strong presence on screen and sells all his lines with conviction and menace. He has no special effects to rely on [just a good pair of fangs and a little white makeup]. Yet he makes it work rather well. His bevy of "vampire ho's" are also a great deal of fun. There is a playfulness to their scenes that makes the viewer giggle with pleasure rather than scream in terror. They are definitely 70's girls out for a good time!

IMDB only gave this one a rating of 5.7. I think it's an underrated movie that deserved an audience. One of the problems with critics is that some simply don't like horror. Therefore, they rate these movies lower than they should. If you're a fan of the vampire genre then I recommend Count Yorga, Vampire. It's one of the best 70's vampire films out there.

RATING: Very Good.

For more info check out the film's entry in IMDB.