Fog rises above the Gothic cathedral. An unblemished soul journeys eastward to quench a millennia-old longing.

Returning to the Vampire Castle explores the adoption of Western architectural principles in Central Europe through the lens of a vampire story set against the backdrop of a polarizing Czech symbol—Prague Castle. A renowned Western architect is commissioned to design several new interventions on the Castle grounds, thereby embodying the values of the new head of state. Just as Jonathan Harker once set out on a journey to Transylvania, she is now entrusted with the task of anchoring a Central European identity that, in her eyes, oscillates between reality and imagination, civilization and mystery.

The project was created with the support of Artyčok.TV, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year.

Camera: Forever Yumi Pictures

Sound and soundtrack: Keiko Sei

Hair and makeup: Laura Filáková

Costumes: Izzy Kramer

3D animation: Sofie Gjuričová

Starring: Antoanella Ungureanu

Also starring: Adam Brož, Adam Rýznar, Markéta Slaná, Ljuba Šlechtová, and Jakub Wiesner