A brand new score for Murnau’s vampire classic.
The Film
A mysterious, spidery vampire with supernatural powers, a sinister, dark castle perched on a mountain top, and a race to defeat the forces of evil - the first screen adaptation of Bram Stoker’s Dracula still has the power to unnerve.
Directed in 1922 by German Expressionist master F.W. Murnau, this eerie classic delivers unforgettable imagery – from Count Orlok’s elongated shadow creeping up staircases to the haunting mountain landscapes of Eastern Europe. Upon release, Stoker’s estate sued for plagiarism, prompting a legal battle that saw a court order every print destroyed. Miraculously, a few survived.
The Music
For this specially-commissioned live soundtrack, award-winning Leeds-based composer and sonic artist Ben Gaunt joins forces with silent film scoring specialists Frame Ensemble to create a mix of electronics and live improvisation.
Frame Ensemble is the UK’s only musical group specialising in improvised silent film scoring. Their live soundtracks capture the atmosphere of each film in unique, spontaneously created sound.
Ben Gaunt has composed for the London Symphony Orchestra, Grimethorpe Colliery Band, London Sinfonietta, and many other professional ensembles.
Commissioned by Northern Silents with National Science and Media Museum and The Stoller Hall.
This performance is part of Bradford: A City of Film, a programme of independent film across the Bradford District. Co-Produced by Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture and National Science and Media Museum with the support of the BFI, awarding National Lottery funding.
Music: Liz Hanks (cello), Jonny Best (piano)
Director: F.W. Murnau
Year: 1922
Length: 90 mins
