Dir. KJ Lindley | Now Streaming On Shudder | Rating: 5/5

“We have reclaimed the word ‘monster,’ to display as a badge of honor and celebrate that which makes us different.” – The Boulet Brothers

As another season of Dragula comes to a momentous close, I can’t help but feel just as much joy in my heart as when I watched the first season. I watched the finale last night, and haven’t been able to get the words, art, and passion from these artists out of my mind. This is by far my favorite season of Dragula. 

Especially in comparison to the humble beginnings of Season 1, Season 5 boasts crisp production quality. The sets, costuming, and lighting of this season is consistent and thorough. The writing and theatrics, which has been one of my major points of critique on the show since the beginning, has been tightened immensely this time around. We’re not sitting through long, drawn out gags. The episodes are introduced and we get down to business in great time. The exterminations and challenges brought the filth to the table that many felt was missing in prior seasons. 

The Season 5 cast, in my opinion, is the most diverse – both in artistic style and demographic – of all of the seasons so far. This cast was likable and enjoyable to watch interact with each other, even in the more reality tv-esque elements of the show. This was the first finale in my time watching the show, that I was truly content with any of the finalists taking the crown. With each season, the artistry and talent on this show becomes harder and harder to outdo. 

What makes this a standout season for me is how present the message of the Dragula franchise is in this cast and the way they are portrayed in the show’s run. The finale includes a featurette for each finalist that tells their story. Beyond the horror, filth, and glamor, these stories display the unspoken tenant of Dragula – the unconditional love and acceptance within a family of outcasts. The Boulets and Dragula continue to embody the purest form of love in the horror community – a safe haven to be who you are even in the face of adversity. 

Like Resurrection, I feel that this season brings us back to the roots of why the Boulets do what they do. It is our responsibility as a horror community to make space for the unadulterated kindness, fun, and joy that this franchise embodies. If you still haven’t gotten on the Dragula train, I’d absolutely recommend giving this season a try. 

I will close with the words of standout artist Orkgotik – “You are made for greater things that are still unknown to you, so don’t bleed out just yet.”

Know Before You Watch: Features horror SFX, gore, blood, flashing lights, nudity.