Summit doesn't fear a Son of Anarchy as they've brought in screenwriter Scott Kosar to work on Charlie Hunnam's script for Vlad, an action-thriller based on the life of Vlad the Impaler as a young prince; before he became known as Dracula.  Kosar's previous films include the 2004 Christian Bale flick The Machinist as well as the remakes of The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, The Amityville Horror, and The Crazies.  The film will be directed by music video director Anthony Mandler.

Another pre-Dracula tale trying to get off the ground is Alex Proyas' Dracula: Year Zero, which also follows the historical tale of Vlad the Impaler, but then takes a supernatural route.  I'm not sure Vlad will do the same and it could (and may have to) distinguish itself by setting the myth of Dracula in a realistic setting so audiences can see not the Dracula we know today, but how a historical figure inspired Bram Stoker's tale of the bloodsucker.  Year Zero is also looking to land a big name actor, such as Sam Worthington, in the lead role.  Vlad may intend to do the same but hasn't reach that stage yet.  It could also just be a smaller production.  It will be interesting to see if either or both of these projects go into production, but these days it seems wise to bet on vampires even if they don't sparkle in sunshine.

[THR]