The elegant Gloria Holden elegantly plays Countess Marya Zaleska in 1936’s Dracula Daughter, the title role to be exact. This role has been saluted for its subtle hints of lesbianism and seen today, the whole product still contains many themes that have aged very well. Don’t expect to see fangs, blood or big fight scenes here: this movie is all about atmosphere, and it succeeds very well at it, suggesting a sensual languor that clings automatically to the brain. Interestingly, the plot starts just after the conclusion of 1931’s Dracula. Bela Lugosi was supposed to be in it, even took part in some publicity stills, but it was not meant to be after original director James Whale’s departure. Ironically, Bela received one of his most lucrative salaries, for a film in didn’t even appear in!

This is Gloria Holden’s most famous role, in a movie career that started in 1934 and finished in 1958. She was Universal’s second female movie “monster”, after the much-celebrated Elsa Lanchester in Bride of Frankenstein the year before. It has been reported that Ms. Holden only blinks once in the whole 71 minutes production! Highly recommended.