Upon first laying eyes on Nicholas Hoult‘s pallid poster, one could be forgiven for thinking this was a spin-off of “Warm Bodies” (2013). Instead, we are treated to the delightful comedy-horror “Renfield,” which chronicles the exploits of Nicolas Cage‘s newest, captivating role as Count Dracula.
Directed by Chris McKay of “The Lego” series and penned by Robert Kirkman, best known for his early work on “The Walking Dead” series and many comic book origins, “Renfield” leaves no stone unturned.
Though the film plants seeds for potential subplots that never come to fruition, these minor shortcomings are easily overshadowed by Nicolas Cage’s captivating performance and the gratuitous splattering of blood. To criticize this film for anything other than its intentionally absurd nature would be uncouth. Instead, the viewer should simply bask in the film’s delightfully unhinged atmosphere.
Above all else, the movie offers a long-awaited return to composer Marco Beltrami‘s early style, with a full orchestra that beautifully showcases both woodwind and brass instruments. The score’s approach is orthodox yet masterful, as Beltrami’s unparalleled skill and technical expertise shine through in this action-packed romp. The scene in which Hoult’s character first encounters Awkwafina and the two proceed to wreak havoc in a restaurant is worth revisiting thrice, thanks to the deft guitar work and stunning composition. The soundtrack is, without question, a must-listen.