This Christmas, director Robert Eggers offers a haunting new adaptation of the 19th-century vampire classic “Nosferatu”.
Known for his atmospheric and immersive filmmaking, Eggers brings his unique touch to this gothic tale, blending horror, historical accuracy and psychological depth to create a chilling cinematic experience.
Fans of his previous works, “The Witch” (2015) and “The Lighthouse” (2019), will find much to appreciate in this film, but it also introduces a fresh and eerie take on one of the most iconic vampire stories in cinema history.
The film opens with a dreamlike sequence in which Ellen (Lily-Rose Depp) pleads for companionship beyond her mundane existence. Her cries are met by a shadowy voice coaxing her into unknowingly devoting herself to an obsessive, demonic force.
This sequence establishes the unsettling tone of the film, which combines elements of surrealism with the raw terror of ancient evil.
Years later, Ellen marries Thomas Hutter (Nicholas Hoult), a local real estate agent in the town of Wisborg. Thomas is tasked with traveling to Transylvania to facilitate the relocation of Count Orlok (Bill Skarsgård), a mysterious and terrifying figure.
Shortly after their honeymoon, Thomas’ journey leaves Ellen alone and Orlok’s presence begins to torment her once again. As Ellen grows increasingly anxious, she is haunted by visions of Orlok and his sinister desires.
Eggers is known for his ability to make the supernatural feel grounded in reality, and this adaptation is no exception. “Nosferatu” explores not only the terror of Orlok but also the psychological and emotional weight of Ellen’s journey.
The film builds tension slowly, using atmosphere and mood to create a sense of impending doom. The story doesn’t just focus on the monster but also delves deeply into the character’s inner struggles, particularly Ellen’s battle with fear and devotion.
The film’s pacing is deliberate, creating a slow-burn atmosphere that is both unnerving and captivating. The tension between the characters, especially Ellen and Orlok, is palpable throughout. Eggers’ use of silence and subtle sound design heightens the sense of isolation and dread.
Cinematically, “Nosferatu” maintains a timeless quality, with a blend of modern techniques and old-school horror aesthetics. Depp delivers a nuanced performance as Ellen Hutter, and while fans’ online reactions to her portrayal have been mixed, there is no denying the vulnerability and strength she brings to the role.
Depp’s portrayal of Ellen is far from a typical damsel in distress. She embodies a character caught between fear and determination. Her subtle facial expressions and body language speak volumes about the psychological toll that Orlok’s presence takes on her.
The chemistry between Depp and Skarsgård is particularly haunting, capturing the tragic and twisted nature of their connection.
Hoult’s performance as Thomas Hutter is solid, though more straightforward. Hoult skillfully portrays Thomas as an earnest, naïve character whose journey from optimism to desperation mirrors the increasing horror that descends on Wisborg.
As Thomas becomes more entwined in the sinister happenings, Hoult’s portrayal effectively shifts from innocent to frantic, showing the evolution of a man unraveling under the pressure of his own actions.
Willem Dafoe, always a welcome presence in any film, brings his signature intensity to a supporting role. While his screen time is limited, Dafoe’s performance adds a layer of menace and complexity to the narrative. His unsettling energy contributes significantly to the film’s overall atmosphere of dread.
Bill Skarsgård’s portrayal of Count Orlok received praise for its eerie physicality and psychological depth, but it has also sparked some disappointment among critics and fans.
Skarsgård’s take on Orlok deviates from the grotesque, primal figure seen in the 1922 version, opting instead for a more refined and modernized appearance. While this choice emphasizes Orlok’s predatory elegance and sinister charm, it sacrifices some of the primal horror that made the original Orlok so terrifying.
Skarsgård’s physical presence is undeniably haunting and his piercing gaze does much of the heavy lifting to create the character’s unsettling allure. However, the visual design of Orlok’s costume and makeup falls short of fully capturing the nightmarish qualities that made the original version so iconic. His sleek, almost aristocratic appearance feels more contemporary than the monstrous, otherworldly figure that fans of the original “Nosferatu” (1922) might expect.
The cinematography in “Nosferatu” is a triumph, using modern techniques to enhance the film’s gothic sensibilities. The color grading is dark and moody, with a heavy reliance on shadows and silhouettes that amplify the film’s eerie tone. The absence of warmth throughout most of the film emphasizes the evil that pervades Orlok’s presence, while a few key moments of light provide contrast and focus on critical emotional beats.
Eggers’ use of a low aspect ratio further intensifies the claustrophobic feeling of the film, making the viewer feel trapped in a world where evil is closing in on every side. Additionally, the film’s use of mirrors and reflections adds an unsettling layer to the narrative, highlighting the unnatural nature of Orlok’s influence on the characters.
The sound design, often silent or minimalistic, ensures that every creak and whisper contributes to the growing tension, heightening the fear even in quiet moments.
The costume design in Nosferatu is another standout element, with intricate and historically accurate details that immerse the viewer in 19th-century Europe.
Ellen’s wardrobe — composed of delicate fabrics and Victorian silhouettes — underscores her vulnerability while reflecting her quiet strength. The muted colors and intricate lacework mirror the somber tone of her journey, subtly nodding to the fashion trends of the era.
Count Orlok’s costume is equally striking with long, dark coats and high collars that exude a predatory elegance. The textured fabrics and understated embellishments serve to enhance his eerie presence, blending seamlessly with the film’s overall shadowy palette.
The attention to detail in the costumes contributes significantly to the immersive atmosphere, grounding the story in its historical context while maintaining the film’s supernatural edge.
While “Nosferatu” excels in many areas, its pacing and narrative structure have received mixed reactions. The film’s slow buildup may alienate viewers unfamiliar with the original story or those expecting a more conventional horror narrative.
The lack of early background on Count Orlok’s motivations and his connection to Ellen leaves viewers somewhat disconnected from the characters’ emotional stakes. As the film progresses, it rushes through crucial plot points, leaving some character arcs underdeveloped.
Moreover, the film’s focus on sexual undertones, particularly in the dynamic between Thomas and Ellen, occasionally feels out of place. While such themes have long been present in vampire lore, their treatment here feels heavy-handed at times, distracting from the core narrative of fear, sacrifice and obsession.
Despite its flaws, “Nosferatu” is a must-watch for horror fans to wrap up the holiday season. Its slow-burn tension, strong performances and stunning visual design make it a memorable experience, though some narrative choices might leave certain viewers frustrated.
If you are patient and willing to embrace its eerie atmosphere, “Nosferatu” will linger in your mind long after the credits roll. The film’s ending is a raw depiction of devotion and sacrifice that will leave a lasting impression. It might just be the scariest depiction of supernatural forces you’ve seen on film in years.
