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Stoker's Dracula #1-4
Dracula
Bram Stroker's legendary novel of gothic horror to life in this stunning adaptation by comics legends Roy Thomas and Dick Giordano-newly colored by June Chung. Solicitor Jonathan Harker travels to distant Transylvania encounters the enigmatic and sinister Count Dracula unearthing dread secrets about his foreign host and his castle. Then the horror continues as Dracula makes his way to England, setting his sights on Lucy Westenra and Mina Murray, Jonathan's fi ancé, and we're introduced to Abraham Van Helsing, the one man who may be able to stop the vampire lord's terrifying plans.
208 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2005
58 people are currently reading
6542 people want to read
About the author
Roy Thomas
4,479 books271 followersRoy Thomas was the FIRST Editor-in-Chief at Marvel--After Stan Lee stepped down from the position. Roy is a longtime comic book writer and editor. Thomas has written comics for Archie, Charlton, DC, Heroic Publishing, Marvel, and Topps over the years. Thomas currently edits the fanzine Alter Ego for Twomorrow's Publishing. He was Editor for Marvel comics from 1972-1974. He wrote for several titles at Marvel, such as Avengers, Thor, Invaders, Fantastic Four, X-Men, and notably Conan the Barbarian. Thomas is also known for his championing of Golden Age comic-book heroes — particularly the 1940s superhero team the Justice Society of America — and for lengthy writing stints on Marvel's X-Men and Avengers, and DC Comics' All-Star Squadron, among other titles.
Also a legendary creator. Creations include Wolverine, Carol Danvers, Ghost Rider, Vision, Iron Fist, Luke Cage, Valkyrie, Morbius, Doc Samson, and Ultron. Roy has also worked for Archie, Charlton, and DC among others over the years.
Also a legendary creator. Creations include Wolverine, Carol Danvers, Ghost Rider, Vision, Iron Fist, Luke Cage, Valkyrie, Morbius, Doc Samson, and Ultron. Roy has also worked for Archie, Charlton, and DC among others over the years.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
December 16, 2016
It is a faithful adaptation, not a "cheap" thrill of vampire hunting stories (I believe if you want a vampire hunting full action story, Marvel comics provides 'Blade').
There is 'it is me not you' issue: I found cursive handwriting letters on comic text boxes are distracting. I understand the adapters want to present epistolary atmosphere in the story with the cursive letters, but still... oh well, as I said, it is my issue.
There is 'it is me not you' issue: I found cursive handwriting letters on comic text boxes are distracting. I understand the adapters want to present epistolary atmosphere in the story with the cursive letters, but still... oh well, as I said, it is my issue.
September 21, 2011
I bought this book in Borders, during its going-out-of-business clearance sale. I am very sad to see Borders go, as it was more then a bookstore to me. It was a social hub, a place of high school memories, and a great escape from the craziness of home. But alas...nothing I can do.
I've read Bram Stoker's Dracula many times. Who hasn't? I'm sure everyone has seen one of the many Dracula movies made in the last century. And with vampires being incredibly popular nowadays, I figured what else can they come up with? Well, the answer is this comic book, by Marvel Comics.
MAKE NO MISTAKE. Marvel's Dracula is not just a silly little comic book. It Is NOT a summary of Dracula or a spin off. This comic book IS Dracula, the way Bram Stoker might have wanted to tell it had he the ability to create such an art form. This book is gloriously detailed and follows the original narrative thoroughly. I REALLY have to give them credit that they seriously devote a full third, if not half of the book, to John's capture by Dracula in his castle. While most movie retelling skim this part, Marve's comic doesn't. In fact, the pace throughout the book is great, really keep up with the story and doing a good job of telling the story through the multiple outlets (journals, newspapers, voice recording) of each character. Further, I note that it was very easy to know exactly whose journal I was "Reading" or where the information came from. In fact... it was VERY MUCH easier then the original Dracula novel.
The art was magnificent. Very beautifully done. Lovely, attractive characters, great color choice (red for alive, grays for dead). The frames were easy to follow. I like that they actually showed Dracula change from ugly, pale, white in the beginning, to attractive, dark, mysterious in the end. The artist rending of period clothing, homes, carriages, and more was all very delightful.
When I think back to Dracula and the movies, it's easy to see how the book just LENDS itself to a visual format. With such grotesque and beautiful settings and characters, the imagination can run wild. Which is why I wonder HOW COME THIS COMIC WAS NOT MADE SOONER? I read all the background information and I learned that it took 30 years to make this book! 30 years! Wow! I'm just glad that it is finally made. In fact, seeing the story come to life in a visual format make it MUCH easier to understand then the original novel!
I really enjoyed this book and definitely recommend it to everyone, ages 13 and above. The art work is great, the story telling is great, there is a lot to see and read, and it keeps yours interest. I'm very happy to add this book to my library.
This version is my TRUE Dracula!
I've read Bram Stoker's Dracula many times. Who hasn't? I'm sure everyone has seen one of the many Dracula movies made in the last century. And with vampires being incredibly popular nowadays, I figured what else can they come up with? Well, the answer is this comic book, by Marvel Comics.
MAKE NO MISTAKE. Marvel's Dracula is not just a silly little comic book. It Is NOT a summary of Dracula or a spin off. This comic book IS Dracula, the way Bram Stoker might have wanted to tell it had he the ability to create such an art form. This book is gloriously detailed and follows the original narrative thoroughly. I REALLY have to give them credit that they seriously devote a full third, if not half of the book, to John's capture by Dracula in his castle. While most movie retelling skim this part, Marve's comic doesn't. In fact, the pace throughout the book is great, really keep up with the story and doing a good job of telling the story through the multiple outlets (journals, newspapers, voice recording) of each character. Further, I note that it was very easy to know exactly whose journal I was "Reading" or where the information came from. In fact... it was VERY MUCH easier then the original Dracula novel.
The art was magnificent. Very beautifully done. Lovely, attractive characters, great color choice (red for alive, grays for dead). The frames were easy to follow. I like that they actually showed Dracula change from ugly, pale, white in the beginning, to attractive, dark, mysterious in the end. The artist rending of period clothing, homes, carriages, and more was all very delightful.
When I think back to Dracula and the movies, it's easy to see how the book just LENDS itself to a visual format. With such grotesque and beautiful settings and characters, the imagination can run wild. Which is why I wonder HOW COME THIS COMIC WAS NOT MADE SOONER? I read all the background information and I learned that it took 30 years to make this book! 30 years! Wow! I'm just glad that it is finally made. In fact, seeing the story come to life in a visual format make it MUCH easier to understand then the original novel!
I really enjoyed this book and definitely recommend it to everyone, ages 13 and above. The art work is great, the story telling is great, there is a lot to see and read, and it keeps yours interest. I'm very happy to add this book to my library.
This version is my TRUE Dracula!
October 29, 2025
Excellent adaptation of Bram Stoker's timeless "Dracula," by Roy Thomas, art by Dick Giordano.
September 18, 2018
In 1897, Draculawas first published by Bram Stoker. In 1975, comic book legends Dick Giordano and Roy Thomas began working on a comic book adaptation of Dracula for Marvel Comics. Unfortunately, the project was cancelled. Thirty years later, the two reunited to complete the book.
Next to Dracula The Graphic Novel: Original Text Illustrated by Staz Johnson, and Bram Stoker's Dracula adapted and illustrated by Fernando Fernandez....this is the second best adaptation.
The text of Stoker's novel is about 90% preserved within the book. Most of the characters are visually depicted the way Bram Stoker described them...except for Van Helising...who looks like Colonel Sanders...
Aside from the KFC vampire hunter, the artwork is beautifully done, in a photo-realistic style. One thing that bugged me though is that the artist's style changes halfway through the book. It's slightly more cartoony in the second half with less spotted blacks. Of course, Dick Giordano admits this in the afterward.
Dracula is a story which I will continue to revist for years to come, and makes for a perfect graphic Novel!!!
Next to Dracula The Graphic Novel: Original Text Illustrated by Staz Johnson, and Bram Stoker's Dracula adapted and illustrated by Fernando Fernandez....this is the second best adaptation.
The text of Stoker's novel is about 90% preserved within the book. Most of the characters are visually depicted the way Bram Stoker described them...except for Van Helising...who looks like Colonel Sanders...
Aside from the KFC vampire hunter, the artwork is beautifully done, in a photo-realistic style. One thing that bugged me though is that the artist's style changes halfway through the book. It's slightly more cartoony in the second half with less spotted blacks. Of course, Dick Giordano admits this in the afterward.
Dracula is a story which I will continue to revist for years to come, and makes for a perfect graphic Novel!!!
November 3, 2012
I had this on my shelf waiting to be read, so I figured Halloween was a great time to read it. This is a fantastic adaptation of the novel, and does the original work great justice. The art (Giordano) perfectly captures the mood and lends a "period" feel to the whole thing. The HC version is bound nicely, but there is some gutter loss which is a bit frustrating. If you've read the novel this is worth a read especially for the art. I always like to start with the original work before venturing on to adaptations, so take that for what it's worth.
April 18, 2011
Borders was closing and this is one of the graphic novels I picked up for 80% off - I am a huge fan of the original novel and was curious. It is very faithful to the novel and the graphics make it even MORE creepy, if that is possible. I also find it very satisfying that Dracula could rip out Edward Cullen's throat and eat him for breakfast. How come there isn't a graphic novel about that? I'd buy that at full price.
November 7, 2022
Leí este libro en la prepa en español y ahora que lo volví a leer pero en inglés, me gustó mucho más. Cada personaje tiene un estilo narrativo distintivo y se encariña uno con todos. En mi caso mi favorita siempre será Mina un personaje tan femenino, audaz, inteligente, responsable y cariñosa que sigue siendo mi role model después de muchos años ahora ya como esposa <3
October 10, 2025
I've read several graphic novels adaptations of Dracula over the years and I think this one is definitely the one that feels most like the novel upon which it is based. The plot and text is very faithful to the novel and the artwork FEELS like it fits the novel. I enjoyed that it kept the different POVs and how they used different lettering to convey who was telling which part of the story.
That said...it's very wordy and for a graphic novel that slows down the pacing a lot. I had a lot more fun reading the Universal Monsters Dracula last year than I did reading this adaptation...but if you're looking for something that FEELS like the novel...this one is the clear winner over the Universal Monsters version.
I would definitely recommend this to anyone who enjoyed the novel or anyone who maybe doesn't want to read the novel but wants to know what it's like. I would definitely read this again...but it's not a new favorite for me.
That said...it's very wordy and for a graphic novel that slows down the pacing a lot. I had a lot more fun reading the Universal Monsters Dracula last year than I did reading this adaptation...but if you're looking for something that FEELS like the novel...this one is the clear winner over the Universal Monsters version.
I would definitely recommend this to anyone who enjoyed the novel or anyone who maybe doesn't want to read the novel but wants to know what it's like. I would definitely read this again...but it's not a new favorite for me.
November 11, 2021
Classic!
I've never read Dracula, but this graphic novel adaptation seemed the perfect opportunity. The art is great, but the captions and dialogue are just as vivid in bringing the story to the reader. Some of the captions were challenging since they were lettered in a script form as if handwritten; but it was easy to zoom in to read panel by panel.
Also included are pre- and post-script by the writer and artist detailing how their collaboration which started in the 70s was finished much later. Some additional artwork follows as well, covers, sketches, and processes from pencil to finished page.
I've never read Dracula, but this graphic novel adaptation seemed the perfect opportunity. The art is great, but the captions and dialogue are just as vivid in bringing the story to the reader. Some of the captions were challenging since they were lettered in a script form as if handwritten; but it was easy to zoom in to read panel by panel.
Also included are pre- and post-script by the writer and artist detailing how their collaboration which started in the 70s was finished much later. Some additional artwork follows as well, covers, sketches, and processes from pencil to finished page.
February 2, 2021
Fedele al libro. Ovviamente non può esserci tutto tutto, ma i tagli sono stati fatti in maniera oculata e bene, in modo che i punti più salienti ci siano. La storia scorre bene, e davvero non si sente la mancanza di alcune parti. Me ne sono accorta perché arrivo dalla lettura del romanzo, ma chi ci si approccia come prima volta, trova una storia ben curata in ogni dettaglio, sia visivo che di narrazione!
November 18, 2020
It has been a long time since I have read comics, now called graphic novels (?)--- as I see little difference in the two except for the amount of pages. I was pleasantly surprised by this. The illustrations could have been more darker, gritty, horror-esque. However, the storyline flowed much alike Stoker's Dracula that we all know and love.
October 22, 2019
Dracula, the graphic novel or 'How to ruin a beautiful story with poor lettering choices and a not so great art style'.
November 18, 2018
Thirty years in the making, Marvel’s Dracula is a thrilling and incredibly faithful adaptation of Bram Stoker’s classic tale of horror. When a young woman comes down with a mysterious illness that is determined to be caused by a vampire bite, a group of her friends band together to avenge her by killing the vampire, Count Dracula, who’s attempting to establish a new home (and feeding grounds) in London. At over 200 pages, writer Roy Thomas attempts to include as much as possible from Bram Stoker’s novel (particularly the dialog). And illustrator Dick Giordano does a good job at creating character designs and dynamic action scenes. There are a few stylistic differences between the early chapters what were published as serials in Dracula Lives! and the later ones, but overall it’s remarkably consistent. Also, it’s especially well-paced; never feeling like it’s dragging out or rushing through the story. A true passion project, Dracula is a lovingly crafted gothic-horror graphic novel.
October 6, 2021
I don't normally like comic books but this is beautifully designed.
August 10, 2017
I loved this edition of Dracula. Though I have not finished the novel itself, I have friends who have and they assured me that this does not leave much out.
The story itself was quite interesting. As one of the first full vampire novels, I can see how others have drawn inspiration from this book.
There were parts that I was not a fan of, that felt rushed, but as these are journal entries and letters, there would not be the drawn out narratives that would be there were it someone's novel.
The art was very well done. I loved the color uses and the playing with shadows to make it seem more foreboding. It was beautiful.
That being said, in this particular edition, some of the text was difficult to see. Because the artists were differentiating the writers by color and font, this made some of the combinations difficult to read. In particular, I found it difficult to read Mina's writing. Since it was pink on pink with a cursive type font, everything looked jumbled together and was just, in general, difficult to read.
That is the main reason I gave it two stars off, though I actually give this book a 3.5. I liked the story and I am excited to actually pick up and read the full novel, hopefully soon, to see if I can mark the differences between the two.
The story itself was quite interesting. As one of the first full vampire novels, I can see how others have drawn inspiration from this book.
There were parts that I was not a fan of, that felt rushed, but as these are journal entries and letters, there would not be the drawn out narratives that would be there were it someone's novel.
The art was very well done. I loved the color uses and the playing with shadows to make it seem more foreboding. It was beautiful.
That being said, in this particular edition, some of the text was difficult to see. Because the artists were differentiating the writers by color and font, this made some of the combinations difficult to read. In particular, I found it difficult to read Mina's writing. Since it was pink on pink with a cursive type font, everything looked jumbled together and was just, in general, difficult to read.
That is the main reason I gave it two stars off, though I actually give this book a 3.5. I liked the story and I am excited to actually pick up and read the full novel, hopefully soon, to see if I can mark the differences between the two.
May 29, 2012
This is a faithfully creepy adaptation of Bram Stoker's classic tale of vampires that excels both in the text and the illustrations. The dialog and narration are fluid, and in graphic novel format the number of different narrators (Jonathan Harker's diary, Mina Murray's letters, Dr. Seward's phonograph recordings, et al.) stand out as different voices. The artwork is bold yet still nuanced, and it manages to maintain detail even in predominantly dark frames.
If I have one complaint, it's that the characters sometimes look like garish, modern interpretations of what Victorians looked like; many appearances ring false. From Lucy Westenra's, shall I say, endowments, I can only conclude that there was at least one darn good cosmetic surgeon back then, and the Count's porn 'stache is truly noteworthy!
If I have one complaint, it's that the characters sometimes look like garish, modern interpretations of what Victorians looked like; many appearances ring false. From Lucy Westenra's, shall I say, endowments, I can only conclude that there was at least one darn good cosmetic surgeon back then, and the Count's porn 'stache is truly noteworthy!
January 5, 2018
Very solid adaptation to one of my all time favourite classics. The greyscale artwork is astoundingly moody and perfectly creates the gothic tone and the adaptation of the text (since the author didn't exactly 'write' it per-se) was coherent and well done with all that was condensed.
Only concern was that I had trouble reading Mina's diary entries, that were written in curly calligraphy (the kind I hate and is unfortunately quite common during this time period in history). It was a bit trying on my eyes but to be fair it was only a small section of the whole book.
So...yep it's very good. :)
Only concern was that I had trouble reading Mina's diary entries, that were written in curly calligraphy (the kind I hate and is unfortunately quite common during this time period in history). It was a bit trying on my eyes but to be fair it was only a small section of the whole book.
So...yep it's very good. :)
September 10, 2017
Dracula is a long-winded Victorian novel about a prototypical vampire and his quest to add to his un-dead harem. The prose is dense and the action is sparse. The story is a slow-build of a horror tale. This comic book version is faithfully translated by Roy Thomas and lavishly illustrated by Dick Giordano. This version of the classic is a solid adaptation except for the lettering which makes the book very hard to read.
September 17, 2016
If it is Bram Stoker's Dracula then it is one of my favorite books, not only as a horror but classic as well. The story that Stoker weaved was beyond comparison, no wonder he is still around! Count Dracula has become synonymous to vampires in some places, especially to those who don't read much horror stories, they often mistake count Dracula as a synonym to vampire.
January 7, 2017
Solid adaptation of the novel (which I haven't read), but the text and graphics combine to bring the novel's story to vivid life. Was actually feeling mildly fearful at points in the book.
October 23, 2019
Reprints Marvel Illustrated: Dracula #1-4 (August 2010-September 2010). When Jonathan Harker is sent to Transylvania for a land deal, he finds more than he bargains for. The owner of Castle Dracula has an unearthliness to him that frightens Jonathan to the core. Trapped and unable to escape, Jonathan is unaware that Dracula is headed to England and has become intertwined with the people in his life…and danger that Dracula could pose to his beloved Mina Murray.
Written by Roy Thomas, Marvel Illustrated: Dracula is a limited series adaptation of Bram Stoker’s classic 1897 horror novel. The collection features art by Dick Giordano. Marvel previously adapted the story in Marvel Classics Comics #9 (September 1976).
I have a soft spot for Classic Illustrated comic books. The series was one of my earlier introductions to comic books as something more than superheroes and something that can actually teach and help demystify some novels that are tricky. Dracula has always been a difficult novel with a unique style to it, and Thomas does a decent job conveying the ideas and story of Dracula.
Dracula is a bit of an odd subject for Marvel as it is. The adaption series was originally conceived around the time Marvel was publishing Tomb of Dracula (about modern day vampire hunters trying to stop Dracula). You can kind of read this collection as a prequel to that series though the art doesn’t entirely match…so if you are a fan of the series, it is an interesting addendum to it.
The second thing you notice while reading Dracula is how modern it was. Frankenstein was a revolutionary book in its blending of horror and romanticism, and Dracula is a similar mix in its epistolary style of telling. The character of Dracula isn’t presented as tortured as the monster of Frankenstein, but there are a few glimmers of it…the ideas of hypnosis, blood transfusions, and science vs. folklore make the changing of the times a rather interesting product in the novel. Thomas has the trickiness of trying to encapsulate all this into four issues (while also fighting a lot of adaptation of the story that already exist).
Dracula essentially created the modern vampire and introduced a lot of the ideas surrounding vampires. The influence on horror cannot be avoided and the character of Dracula himself has been explored and dissected within the text and beyond the pages of novel. Marvel Illustrated: Dracula is a solid (though be it dense) read of the classic novel…you should still read the novel, but this is a good addition to it.
Written by Roy Thomas, Marvel Illustrated: Dracula is a limited series adaptation of Bram Stoker’s classic 1897 horror novel. The collection features art by Dick Giordano. Marvel previously adapted the story in Marvel Classics Comics #9 (September 1976).
I have a soft spot for Classic Illustrated comic books. The series was one of my earlier introductions to comic books as something more than superheroes and something that can actually teach and help demystify some novels that are tricky. Dracula has always been a difficult novel with a unique style to it, and Thomas does a decent job conveying the ideas and story of Dracula.
Dracula is a bit of an odd subject for Marvel as it is. The adaption series was originally conceived around the time Marvel was publishing Tomb of Dracula (about modern day vampire hunters trying to stop Dracula). You can kind of read this collection as a prequel to that series though the art doesn’t entirely match…so if you are a fan of the series, it is an interesting addendum to it.
The second thing you notice while reading Dracula is how modern it was. Frankenstein was a revolutionary book in its blending of horror and romanticism, and Dracula is a similar mix in its epistolary style of telling. The character of Dracula isn’t presented as tortured as the monster of Frankenstein, but there are a few glimmers of it…the ideas of hypnosis, blood transfusions, and science vs. folklore make the changing of the times a rather interesting product in the novel. Thomas has the trickiness of trying to encapsulate all this into four issues (while also fighting a lot of adaptation of the story that already exist).
Dracula essentially created the modern vampire and introduced a lot of the ideas surrounding vampires. The influence on horror cannot be avoided and the character of Dracula himself has been explored and dissected within the text and beyond the pages of novel. Marvel Illustrated: Dracula is a solid (though be it dense) read of the classic novel…you should still read the novel, but this is a good addition to it.
June 27, 2024
Writer Roy Thomas and artist Dick Giordano's adaptation of Bram Stoker's Dracula has had a long, storied road to completion. It started out in chapter form in Marvel's '70s magazines. The stories from issues 1 and 2 first appeared in Dracula Lives! Nos. 5-8, 10, 11, and Legion of Monsters No. 1 (cover dates March- September, 1975). The project was cancelled, and editor Mark Beazely got the ball rolling to see it completed in 2004. This must have been a pet project for him, as he got Tomb of Dracula reprinted in Essential phone books and later in 3 gorgeous Omnibus editions (which I am proud to own).
This 2010 hardcover edition collects the colorized version from 2010. I am usually a purist, preferring things as they were originally presented, but for some reason my OCD permitted me to buy this version. The computer coloring over Giordano's greyshade '70s pencils has a scratchy look to it, like an old movie, and looks wonderful. His pencils from 2004 were not as heavy handed. It's pretty easy to spot where the original material ended and the 2004 picked up, because his art choices became slightly different, and he utilized full bleed pages versus the traditional bordered panel pages. I wish that he would have stuck with the bordered panel look for consistency's sake. Most people probably wouldn't notice, but I have an eye for detail for stuff like this. This was a better adaptation than Dynamite's recent Complete Dracula series. While that series was a more comprehensive adaptation and excellent in it's own right, this was a better read as a comic book.
Production quibbles: Like all Marvel Premiere Edition hardcovers, this has glued binding. The book is thin, so it's not too bad. The problem is that this format is designed for comic book width. The material in the first half of this book is shrunk down from the wider magazine size, so the gutters get a bit tight for my tastes. Sewn binding, like that found in the same size Marvel Premiere Classic hardcover format would have helped rectify this to a degree. Another problem is that some of the hand lettering can be difficult to read, like the journal portions. This has been recently solicited in Marvel graphic novel-TP format for the mass book market, and I am not sure how well it will read in that format. The Vampire Tales GN-TPBs are in that format and read fine, but certain lettering in portions of this story may prove otherwise for this title. Your mileage may vary. This is most definitely worth a read in some format.
This 2010 hardcover edition collects the colorized version from 2010. I am usually a purist, preferring things as they were originally presented, but for some reason my OCD permitted me to buy this version. The computer coloring over Giordano's greyshade '70s pencils has a scratchy look to it, like an old movie, and looks wonderful. His pencils from 2004 were not as heavy handed. It's pretty easy to spot where the original material ended and the 2004 picked up, because his art choices became slightly different, and he utilized full bleed pages versus the traditional bordered panel pages. I wish that he would have stuck with the bordered panel look for consistency's sake. Most people probably wouldn't notice, but I have an eye for detail for stuff like this. This was a better adaptation than Dynamite's recent Complete Dracula series. While that series was a more comprehensive adaptation and excellent in it's own right, this was a better read as a comic book.
Production quibbles: Like all Marvel Premiere Edition hardcovers, this has glued binding. The book is thin, so it's not too bad. The problem is that this format is designed for comic book width. The material in the first half of this book is shrunk down from the wider magazine size, so the gutters get a bit tight for my tastes. Sewn binding, like that found in the same size Marvel Premiere Classic hardcover format would have helped rectify this to a degree. Another problem is that some of the hand lettering can be difficult to read, like the journal portions. This has been recently solicited in Marvel graphic novel-TP format for the mass book market, and I am not sure how well it will read in that format. The Vampire Tales GN-TPBs are in that format and read fine, but certain lettering in portions of this story may prove otherwise for this title. Your mileage may vary. This is most definitely worth a read in some format.
May 10, 2019
FANG-TASTIC! Or, perhaps, more apropos (though admittedly rather cheeky), BLOODY GOOD! This edition of Marvel's Dracula is like re-reading Bram Stoker's now monolithic little book from way back in 1897, but since it's a gorgeously illustrated, full-color graphic novel, it doesn't take quite as long to devour, of course. The interior art, by the late, great, comics industry legend, Dick Giordano, is superb, and equally legendary comics scribe, Roy Thomas, delivers yet another stunning adaptation based quite faithfully on the seminal source material that first introduced the modern world to the king of vampires himself; the one and only Count Dracula.
In fact, this adaptation is so faithful to the original source material, that most of the dialog and narration is either lifted directly from the book or expertly paraphrased, as only a master like Roy Thomas could deliver. The narrative, though still suitably lengthy, actually seems to flow much more smoothly (and certainly much more expediently) than Stoker's novel. Alhough, to be quite honest, reading this adaptation had me wanting to re-visit the full length book version yet again, just to see exactly what was cut, foreshortened, etc.
But probably the most amazing thing about this collected edition of all four issues (comprised of 16 chapters) of the comic first published in 2004, is that Thomas and Giordano actually started this loving tribute to Stoker's masterpiece way back in 1974! The two different comic magazine titles that the first several chapters originally appeared in (Dracula Lives! and Legion of Monsters) were unfortunately canceled prematurely, however, so the rest of the story had to wait to be finished a full THIRTY YEARS later!
Giordano's rendering style had changed a bit in the interim, but odds are that most readers won't even notice. All in all, this is probably the very best comic book adaptation of ANYTHING (movie, TV show, etc) that I've EVER read. And that's saying quite a lot. Indeed.
In fact, this adaptation is so faithful to the original source material, that most of the dialog and narration is either lifted directly from the book or expertly paraphrased, as only a master like Roy Thomas could deliver. The narrative, though still suitably lengthy, actually seems to flow much more smoothly (and certainly much more expediently) than Stoker's novel. Alhough, to be quite honest, reading this adaptation had me wanting to re-visit the full length book version yet again, just to see exactly what was cut, foreshortened, etc.
But probably the most amazing thing about this collected edition of all four issues (comprised of 16 chapters) of the comic first published in 2004, is that Thomas and Giordano actually started this loving tribute to Stoker's masterpiece way back in 1974! The two different comic magazine titles that the first several chapters originally appeared in (Dracula Lives! and Legion of Monsters) were unfortunately canceled prematurely, however, so the rest of the story had to wait to be finished a full THIRTY YEARS later!
Giordano's rendering style had changed a bit in the interim, but odds are that most readers won't even notice. All in all, this is probably the very best comic book adaptation of ANYTHING (movie, TV show, etc) that I've EVER read. And that's saying quite a lot. Indeed.
April 6, 2018
I want to preface this by saying Dracula is my favorite fictional character. Ever. That said, I've never actually read the original novel. At times, I find it digesting older texts difficult so I thought this graphic novel might be a good way to familiarize myself, first. Make reading and understanding the book a little easier.
I...feel like I've been short-changed.
Before I get into that, I want to applaud this book for the respect it clearly holds for Stoker's novel. It's easy to claim adaption and take more creative liberties than not. While I, again, haven't read Dracula it certainly felt like I was; the narrative approach and art blended together perfectly.
The art, oh the art was stunning: detailed, fluid and crisp, everything you'd expect from gothic horror. If anything, it was even eerier than the story, but I have always been more affected by horror visuals than books. I do wish I had this kind of artistic ability, though...my gosh.
The panel layout was a touch confusing sometimes, only because the placement wasn't always linear. However, this only really happened like, three times, so it wasn't a huge deterrent.
Honestly, my biggest complaint with the entire thing isn't even Roy Thomas' doing: I'm just more interested in the monsters than those hunting them and halfway through the book Dracula sort of took a back seat. He was always the driving force, but spent the last hundred pages inside a box. When he did reemerge, it was for what, two panels? And then Harker and the other boys made quick work of him. Now, maybe it would've had greater impact in novel form, I know comics can shorten a story due to artistic aid. Nonetheless, I remain disappointed.
Although I will say I enjoyed van Helsing's character. I've never known much about the original, and my only real exposure to "professor" van Helsing, as opposed to the hunter, is the 1931 film. (I love that film, but it only touched on the character's resourcefulness.)
One other small grievance I have, and it's more a personal thing: I can't read cursive with the same ease as stylized print. Mina's journal entries were a bit frustrating to get through because of that. Just a personal thing, like I said, and I was still able to read them. Just tripped over a few words.
I think if you're a fan of the original book, definitely check this out. Or, if you're curious but maybe aren't sure if you want to read the novel, pick this up. It's definitely an experience, and if anything else, it's worth taking in the art.
I...feel like I've been short-changed.
Before I get into that, I want to applaud this book for the respect it clearly holds for Stoker's novel. It's easy to claim adaption and take more creative liberties than not. While I, again, haven't read Dracula it certainly felt like I was; the narrative approach and art blended together perfectly.
The art, oh the art was stunning: detailed, fluid and crisp, everything you'd expect from gothic horror. If anything, it was even eerier than the story, but I have always been more affected by horror visuals than books. I do wish I had this kind of artistic ability, though...my gosh.
The panel layout was a touch confusing sometimes, only because the placement wasn't always linear. However, this only really happened like, three times, so it wasn't a huge deterrent.
Honestly, my biggest complaint with the entire thing isn't even Roy Thomas' doing: I'm just more interested in the monsters than those hunting them and halfway through the book Dracula sort of took a back seat. He was always the driving force, but spent the last hundred pages inside a box. When he did reemerge, it was for what, two panels? And then Harker and the other boys made quick work of him. Now, maybe it would've had greater impact in novel form, I know comics can shorten a story due to artistic aid. Nonetheless, I remain disappointed.
Although I will say I enjoyed van Helsing's character. I've never known much about the original, and my only real exposure to "professor" van Helsing, as opposed to the hunter, is the 1931 film. (I love that film, but it only touched on the character's resourcefulness.)
One other small grievance I have, and it's more a personal thing: I can't read cursive with the same ease as stylized print. Mina's journal entries were a bit frustrating to get through because of that. Just a personal thing, like I said, and I was still able to read them. Just tripped over a few words.
I think if you're a fan of the original book, definitely check this out. Or, if you're curious but maybe aren't sure if you want to read the novel, pick this up. It's definitely an experience, and if anything else, it's worth taking in the art.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 11, 2025
This is an exciting graphic novel adaptation of Bram Stoker’s Dracula.
It follows the story of Count Dracula, Jonathan Harker, his beloved Mina, Lucy and her suitors, and of course Van Helsing.
I felt this was a very accurate adaptation of the 1897 novel. The first issues were originally published in the 1970s, then remastered and completed into a full graphic novel over thirty years later, published by Marvel in 2010.
The art feels a bit dated by modern standards, but it’s still fantastic and adds to the old-timey feel. I didn’t really notice the transition from the old issues to the new while reading, which speaks to how well they preserved the original style. You can tell by comparing the first and last few pages, especially in some of the typesetting, but overall, it transitions smoothly.
I really enjoyed this adaptation. It makes the classic story more approachable for some readers, and the graphic format lends itself beautifully to the gothic story of Dracula.
Art: 4.5/5
My Enjoyment: 4.5/5
It follows the story of Count Dracula, Jonathan Harker, his beloved Mina, Lucy and her suitors, and of course Van Helsing.
I felt this was a very accurate adaptation of the 1897 novel. The first issues were originally published in the 1970s, then remastered and completed into a full graphic novel over thirty years later, published by Marvel in 2010.
The art feels a bit dated by modern standards, but it’s still fantastic and adds to the old-timey feel. I didn’t really notice the transition from the old issues to the new while reading, which speaks to how well they preserved the original style. You can tell by comparing the first and last few pages, especially in some of the typesetting, but overall, it transitions smoothly.
I really enjoyed this adaptation. It makes the classic story more approachable for some readers, and the graphic format lends itself beautifully to the gothic story of Dracula.
Art: 4.5/5
My Enjoyment: 4.5/5
May 21, 2020
Pretty faithful adaptation of Bram Stoker's seminal classic, originally serialized for one of Marvel's black-and-white magazines (which got cancelled before the finalization of this story). This is mostly a reprint.
As Roy Thomas writes, they got a letterer known for his ability to letter pretty small so as to be able to accomodate the verbosity of his (Thomas') script. The old magazines were bigger than these reprint issues, though, so the legibility suffers quite a bit here, especially when the lettering switches to cursive. That made reading it a chore in places. Also, the art - while good! - appears (to me) pretty stiff.
I wanted to like this more, especially as I am very fond of Stoker's novel, but as it was it took me nearly a week to read a four-issue miniseries.
As Roy Thomas writes, they got a letterer known for his ability to letter pretty small so as to be able to accomodate the verbosity of his (Thomas') script. The old magazines were bigger than these reprint issues, though, so the legibility suffers quite a bit here, especially when the lettering switches to cursive. That made reading it a chore in places. Also, the art - while good! - appears (to me) pretty stiff.
I wanted to like this more, especially as I am very fond of Stoker's novel, but as it was it took me nearly a week to read a four-issue miniseries.
July 31, 2018
This is one of my favorites to read around Halloween. The artwork in itself as a "classic." It's a faithful adaptation of the book except for small details which, are not important towards the main plot and a waste of visuals. No one wants to read a graphic novel about Paprika chicken. Learing shadows and strange angles helps add thrills and suspense to the story. Makes me think of the old black and white horror movies and German expressionism. I love the graphic novel because the artist's style is modest and doesn't go overboard with being Gothic. The only Gothic about the art is the point of view. The mood and how the night sky and landscape are drawn.
February 8, 2023
Enfin terminé !!! Vous ne savez pas quelle joie c'est de l'avoir fini. J'ai mis une semaine et demie à le lire car je décrochais super facilement. Je n'arrivais pas à rester concentrée pendant très longtemps. Les personnages sont très sympathiques et les paysages très bien imaginés. Cependant, c'était long. J'ai trouvé la plume de l'auteur lourde même si elle reste jolie.
Lu dans une autre collection que je n'ai pas trouvé ici
Lu dans une autre collection que je n'ai pas trouvé ici
December 29, 2024
So glad they were able to finish what they started in 1975, 30 years later in 2005. I felt their work was the highlight of those Dracula Lives! magazines. I love the original Bram Stoker novel, and these artists do too. Could not put this down even though I know the story well. Although I miss the black-and-white illustrations of the 70s original works, the inking and colorist won me over by the end. Again, so glad this exists, completed.
March 17, 2025
Although Count Dracula, vampires, and their supernatural brethren have been around since what feels like time immemorial, it was an awersome experience to read this visual representation of the "birth-work" of vampires.
I think that the people involved in this adaptation did everything right: from what passages to include, what art style, what colors; it all played together beautifully to help bring another literature classic to the masses.
I think that the people involved in this adaptation did everything right: from what passages to include, what art style, what colors; it all played together beautifully to help bring another literature classic to the masses.
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