The action adventure thriller Dracula Untold is the latest big screen depiction of everyone’s favorite vampire. This version tells the origin story of Prince Vlad Tepes, whose legend was the basis for Dracula. By focusing on Tepes’ pre-vampire days, the film provides an interesting look at the events that provoked his monstrous deeds.

In addition to myth, the story contains some actual history. Vlad was a fifteenth century prince who was posthumously nicknamed Vlad the Impaler, due to the notorious cruelty he inflicted on his enemies.

This Universal Pictures release will star Luke Evans as Prince Vlad. Evans’ recent work includes Fast & the Furious 6 and The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug. Horror fans will be glad to know that Evans sports a set of fangs for the role. Sarah Gadon (The Amazing Spider-Man 2), Dominic Cooper (Captain America: The First Avenger), Samantha Barks (Les Misérables) and Diarmaid Murtagh (The Monuments Men) all co-star.

Inspired by Bram Stoker’s characters, the screenplay was written by Matt Sazama and Burk Sharpless, who previously teamed up on The Gods of Egypt. This picture marks the feature film directorial debut of Gary Shore.

Dracula Untold will hit theaters Oct. 17.