R.M. Renfield is a movie that takes a fresh and contemporary approach to a classic horror tale. The story follows Renfield (Nicholas Hoult), a henchman and familiar to Count Dracula (Nicolas Cage), as he decides to leave his centuries-long line of work behind and start a new life in modern-day New Orleans. Here, Renfield meets Rebecca Quincy (Awkwafina), a tough and aggressive traffic cop, and they fall in love. Together, they embark on a journey that takes them through both the dark and light sides of the city.
One of the film's biggest strengths is the chemistry between Hoult and Cage, who play
off each other with ease. They bring a combination of dramatic and comedic tones that make their scenes together a lot of fun to watch. While Hoult gives an excellent performance, it is Awkwafina who steals the show. She delivers a stunning performance, outshining everyone in the film.
The film's visuals are stunning, with a unique tone that switches from gothic to bright pastels, reminiscent of Tim Burton's Edward Scissorhands. This shifting tone gives the film a dynamic and engaging visual style that is both striking and memorable. It's a fantastic departure from traditional horror films that rely solely on darkness and gore.
The supporting cast is also excellent, with particular mention going to the group therapy scenes, which are both funny and charming. The Dracula Easter eggs from past versions of the story are a delightful touch, providing a subtle nod to fans of the original tale.
Perhaps the most memorable scene in the film is the hotel splatter sequence, which is both grotesque and mesmerizing. It's a stunning piece of cinema that is sure to leave an impression on audiences. The final battle scene is also a standout moment, with impressive visuals and intense action.
In conclusion, "R.M. Renfield" is a fantastic film that delivers on all fronts. It's got a great story, an excellent cast, and a unique visual style that sets it apart from other horror films. We give this movie a score of 5/5 severed fingers, and we highly recommend it to anyone looking for a fresh and exciting take on a classic tale