Nosferatu Review

Robert Eggers’ Nosferatu is an exquisite marriage of artistry and terror. A reimagining of F.W. Murnau’s 1922 silent classic, this iteration is a testament to Eggers’ signature ability to immerse audiences in rich, unsettling atmospheres. It’s a hauntingly gothic vision that balances reverence for its source material with the distinct voice of its modern creator.

At its heart, Nosferatu redefines the vampire mythos by placing Bill Skarsgård’s Count Orlok front and center. His portrayal is grotesque yet captivating, a predator whose very presence distorts the film’s reality. Skarsgård’s physicality and voice — deep, guttural, and omnipresent — render Orlok an unforgettable cinematic monster. This is not just a vampire; it’s the embodiment of decay, a being whose malevolence extends far beyond fangs and bloodlust.

Lily-Rose Depp’s Ellen is the film’s emotional core, delivering a performance that is both tragic and terrifying. Her descent into madness, marked by unsettling physical contortions and visceral expressions of repressed desire, challenges the viewer’s understanding of victimhood and agency. Depp commands the screen, making Ellen’s internal conflict as riveting as the external horrors she faces.

Eggers’ direction is meticulous, creating a world steeped in dread. From the shadow-draped landscapes of Eastern Europe to the claustrophobic interiors of Ellen’s home, every frame pulses with an eerie beauty. The use of practical effects and historical accuracy enhances the film’s authenticity, while the haunting score underscores the inescapable grip of Orlok’s influence.

However, the film isn’t without its flaws. At 2 hours and 13 minutes, the pacing occasionally falters, with some scenes lingering unnecessarily. Additionally, while the supporting cast, including Nicholas Hoult as Ellen’s hapless husband and Willem Dafoe as the enigmatic Professor von Franz, deliver solid performances, their characters sometimes feel secondary to the overarching visual and thematic spectacle.

Nosferatu is more than a horror film; it’s a meditation on desire, power, and the boundaries of humanity. Eggers confronts the audience with the darkest aspects of human nature, daring them to feel both repelled and seduced. While the film’s slower moments and traditional gothic themes may not resonate with all viewers, its ambition and craftsmanship are undeniable.

This is a Dracula story for the modern age, unapologetically dark and profoundly affecting. It’s a film that lingers long after the credits roll, much like the shadow of Orlok himself — a chilling reminder of the horrors that hide in plain sight and within.