Get ready to sink your teeth into some fascinating facts about the movie “Renfield”! This unique blend of horror, comedy, and action sets out to make a splash in theaters, so let’s uncover what makes this film stand out from the rest. Here are five intriguing things you should know about “Renfield.”
1. A Fresh Take on Dracula’s Loyal Servant
“Renfield” explores the untold story of Dracula’s infamous henchman, R.M. Renfield. The film takes a creative approach to Bram Stoker’s classic Dracula, published in 1897, offering a fresh perspective on the character while keeping the spirit of the original novel alive.
The film’s premise was conceived by Robert Kirkman, the creative force behind The Walking Dead and Invincible. Kirkman’s innovative approach to the Dracula story was to focus on a character in Dracula’s orbit, rather than the vampire himself. Renfield, a character from Bram Stoker’s classic novel, became the center of this new narrative, blending black comedy with horror movie mayhem to explore the codependent relationship between Renfield and Dracula.
“Renfield” takes a fascinating approach to its opening sequence by compositing Renfield (Nicholas Hoult) and Dracula (Nicolas Cage) into classic Universal vampire films, beginning with Tod Browning’s black-and-white “Dracula.” Director Chris McKay, a lifelong horror fan, was a perfect match for the material, with a comedic sensibility that aligned with the script’s tone. He envisioned this homage to the original 1931 film as a way to connect the backstory of Renfield’s relationship with Dracula. The actors and the VFX team worked meticulously to recreate those classic moments, offering audiences a seamless blend of old and new. This innovative opening sets the stage for the rest of the movie, hinting at the unconventional and creative storytelling to come.
Expect the unexpected as the movie unravels the mysteries surrounding Renfield’s life and adventures.
2. A Stellar Cast and Crew
The movie boasts an impressive ensemble of actors, including Nicholas Hoult as Renfield, Nicolas Cage as Dracula, and Awkwafina in a mysterious role. Ben Schwartz and Brandon Scott also join the star-studded cast, adding their unique flair to the film. Helming the project is director Chris McKay, known for his work on “The LEGO Batman Movie” and “The Tomorrow War,” with a screenplay by Ryan Ridley of “Rick and Morty” fame.
To prepare for the part, Hoult studied Stoker’s Dracula and watched the 1931 film adaptation to draw inspiration from Dwight Frye’s performance. Despite the film’s comedic and action-packed tone, Hoult aimed to pay tribute to the original character while bringing his unique interpretation to the role.
In addition to immersing himself in the source material, Hoult underwent extensive fight training to perform the stunt work required for the part. One particularly memorable aspect of his preparation was consuming various bugs, both real and confectionary-made by the props department, in order to stay true to Renfield’s insect-eating habits from the original novel.
This dream team of talent is sure to deliver a memorable movie experience!
3. Bridging the Past and Present: A Timeless Aesthetic
Alec Hammond, the production designer, dove headfirst into a treasure trove of classic Universal horror films and modern vampire flicks to create the right atmosphere for “Renfield.” The goal? To craft heightened environments that would have a timeless appeal, merging the period sensibilities of the old classics with the modern cinematic language. And boy, did they hit the nail on the head!
For the opening flashback sequence, Hammond designed an impressive library set that pays homage to Bela Lugosi’s era, complete with centuries of accumulated wealth. In present day, Dracula is no longer living in a castle. Rather, his lair is found in the basement of New Orleans’ defunct Charity Hospital. Instead of shooting inside the real Charity Hospital, the production recreated a larger, grander version on a soundstage, resembling a crumbling old cathedral.
Renfield’s devotion to Dracula knows no bounds, and the film’s “blood throne” is a testament to that. The creative minds behind the movie, McKay and Hammond, came up with the idea that Renfield might attempt to revive Dracula intravenously. So, they concocted a homemade contraption using an antique oral surgery chair as a base, adorned with dozens of blood bags. Now that’s what we call a killer design!
Renfield’s journey towards independence is reflected in his first-ever home since leaving his family in the 1930s. Initially drab, the apartment soon bursts into a kaleidoscope of bright colors and inspirational posters, symbolizing Renfield’s newfound freedom and inability to live as an autonomous person. As the saying goes, you can take Renfield out of Dracula’s lair, but you can’t take the Dracula out of Renfield.
If you thought Renfield’s apartment was over-the-top, wait until you get a load of the Lobo family’s ostentatious compound. Covered in gold leaf and guarded by grotesque walls, this crime lord’s lair is the epitome of tasteless grandeur. It screams hubris and flaunts the family’s belief that they’re above the law. Talk about having more money than sense!
4. A Bug Buffet: The Art of Creating Edible Bugs
The devil is in the details, and in “Renfield,” prop master Gary Tuers and his team went the extra mile to create realistic, life-sized bugs for our protagonist to munch on. Using 3D printed models of real insects, they crafted food-grade silicone molds to bring these creepy crawlies to life. In the end, close to 100 of each bug was created. Talk about dedication!
Finding the perfect material for each bug mold was no small feat. After extensive research and development, they settled on injecting melted caramel into the molds. And for the finishing touch? They added legs after the caramel dried. Deliciously creepy, isn’t it?
Before the cameras started rolling, Tuers met with director Chris McKay and actor Nicholas Hoult for a “bug Show-and-Tell.” This event showcased everything from drawings of the planned bug molds to actual candy and real edible bugs available for purchase online. The smorgasbord included flavored crickets, beetles, potato bugs, and even tarantulas. Now that’s a feast for the eyes (and stomach)!
Ever wondered what it’s like to chow down on a cricket? Just ask Nicholas Hoult, who, over the course of the three-month production, consumed approximately 100 crickets! It’s safe to say that his commitment to the role was truly “insect-sational.”
5. From Tattered Suits to Timeless Vampires. Costume Secrets of “Renfield”
Renfield’s wardrobe is a testament to his personal journey, and costume designer Lisa Lovaas didn’t miss a beat. Initially donning a tailored brown suit from the 1930s – worn and mended from years of service – Renfield’s attire takes a bold turn as he breaks free from Dracula, embracing vibrant sweaters, chinos, and sneakers in a bid to fit into modern society. Out with the old, in with the new!
Drawing inspiration from icons like Bela Lugosi, David Bowie, and even Liberace, Lovaas created a stunning red velvet suit and cape for Cage’s Dracula. Custom-made with embroidered “CD” initials, this outfit exudes aristocratic elegance. And what’s a vampire without a little bling? A diamond-and-ruby-encrusted medallion, featuring a miniature portrait of Cage as Vlad the Impaler, ties this captivating look together.
So, are you ready to dive into the world of “Renfield” and uncover the secrets behind this unique vampire comedy-action film? Grab your garlic and wooden stakes, and prepare for a cinematic adventure like no other!
Renfield is now showing in cinemas nationwide. Buy your tickets here.
