Count Dracula, fed up with being constantly pursued by European vampire hunters, moves to USA. But when he finds a Satan-worshipping cult, he loses his power he finds himself against past undead acquaintances, also vampire hunters Hans Harker and Rachel Van Helsing along with Satan himself.
Tomb of Dracula, aka Dracula and Dracula: Sovereign Of The Damned might be better than anything Marvel has to offer these days. Produced by Toei Animation, the film was part of a deal between Marvel and Toei in the 1970s. Dracula: Sovereign of The Damned, adapted The Tomb of Dracula comic series published from 1972 to 1979, and attempts to cram the plot elements of the comic series into 94 minutes. First broadcast on TV Asahi in 1980, it appeared on cable networks, VHS and Betamax in the early 80s.
A few lapses in logic aside, the plot has plenty to offer, with lots vampire lore, action and abilities on display throughout. It's a little hammy at times, mainly due to the voice dubbing and some narration. Nevertheless, the traditional art & animation and Hammer Horror-like score delivers nostalgic joy, there's classic horror themes, sound stings, also disco music in the night club scenes. Directors Akinori Nagaoka and Minoru Okazaki offer great visuals, violence, ample blood, sexually charged scenes and even some nudity. There's many story elements, sacrifices to Satan, love, fatherhood, even being devampirised and reduced to eating hamburgers. The character design is holds up. Memorably there's a creepy graveyard scene where the dead come to life and a fang-full of notable vampire attacks that capture the feel of the comics.
Overall, great horror fun, especially for an over 40 years old made-for-television release. Highly recommended.