The Return of Count Yorga (1971)

With Robert Quarry back as Count Yorga and returning director Bob Kelljan back behind the camera, “Return of Count Yorga” is another fun take at the contemporary vampire film, though it ultimately falls a tad short when compared to the original. Here we find Yorga and his ghoulish assistant Bruda back from the grave and living (or is that unliving?) in a countryside mansion. Yorga Headquarters is located close to an orphanage where the Count promptly falls in love with a rather dim-witted red head whose family runs the place…I think. Homes in the surrounding countryside are attacked in turn by Yorga and his harem of vampire women, with the obligatory showdown taking place at the end between Yorga and the obligatory hero type…with the obligatory “surprise” ending. Robert Quarry is still a great watch as the Count himself, his character is truly memorable and goes down as one of the best vampires ever. Kudos. There’s a nice early shot of vampire broads rising from a cemetery and approaching a young boy, and the home invasion sequence, where Yorga’s flame and her family come under attack is another highlight. Things do get a tad talky in the middle, and I was sorta aggravated by the non-explanation of how Yorga and his assistant, both killed in the first one are both back amongst the undead and raring to go. Oh well, lest we be too picky “Return of Count Yorga” is still some enjoyable drive-in fodder. Any film that has The Count watching “The Vampire Lovers” on television is ok in my book.