I have to admit I fell in love with this werid movie. I don't like gore but for some reason I found myself cracking up over some of the creepy scenes with him and the rats, his fantasies, etc. The brothel scene was ew, wtf. Theres alot that is quite beautiful and visually stunning through out this movie. Couldnt have picked more perfect actors for Raol and Christine, besides Julian Sands is so perfectly seductive creepy and intriqing. It isnt for everybody but for me it's worth it. It isnt as haunting as Robert Endlund's Phantom of the Opera, but still provides the thrills and chills.
This film-and the newer Dracula-remind me of the classic (and Hammer) horror films. The bad press they get is completely disproportionate to their charms. That being said, if you don't like those old (and fairly ridiculous) films, you certainly won't like this.