Freddie Francis' Son of Dracula, not to be confused with the 1943 film featuring Lon Chaney, Jr., is a minor curiosity, an attempt at a comedic, modern-day vampire story that is most notable for its eccentric casting and pop soundtrack. The title role is played by singer and songwriter Harry Nilsson, in his only leading role. Nilsson would later claim he considered the script "awful," but took the part for the chance to work with close friend Ringo Starr. Starr co-stars as Merlin the Magician, who is friend, assistant, and head astrologer to Nilsson's Count Down. The Count has recently inherited his father's title as ruler of the netherworld, and all the monsters are already arriving in London for the coronation party. Still, though, Count Down is unsatisfied; it seems he's a budding composer, more interested in music-making than evil-doing. When he falls in love, The Count considers giving up his immortality for the sake of a normal life. But first, he and Merlin will have to outsmart the nefarious Baron Frankenstein, who has his own plans for the Count. The film includes a performance of Nilsson's hit single "Daybreak."
by Judd Blaise
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