What happens when a 21st-century cinematic genius takes on a century-old silent film masterpiece? Robert Eggers’ Nosferatu the Nosferatu boldly answers that question – though not entirely successfully. Directed and co-written by Robert Eggers, Nosferatu is the latest remake of F. W. Murnau’s classic 1922 horror novel. The film adaptation is set for release in Dec 25th, 2024, and stars Willem Dafoe, Lily-Rose Depp and Bill Scarsgrett appear in the film. Eggers’ version set in eerie Transylvania and a plague-ridden German town, aims to bring a new twist to the story. Faithful to the original, the novel tells the story of estate agent Thomas Hart who is lured to the haunted Earllock estate in Transylvania. In addition to familiar characters, Eggers introduces Professor Albin Aberhart von Franz (Willem Dafoe), an alchemist and occult expert whose discoveries drive the film’s central conflict. The film’s visuals – plague-ridden streets, dark corridors and brightly lit nights – create a chilling atmosphere, accentuated by Eggers’ collaboration with cinematographer Jarin Brasker. Eggers’ Nosferatu is a visually stunning but emotionally unbalanced remake that struggles to outdo the weight of its legendary predecessor.
Eggers in his other movies shined in creating immersive worlds and was able to do the same here too. Once again Lily-Rose Depp excels as Alan Hart, blending determination and vulnerability. O’Rourke, well-played by Bill Skagred, packs both psychological and physical intimidation, while the gothic themes complement the costumes perfectly fitting a dark plot. With storms as the backdrop to the story, there were costumes as well that were very well crafted.
The movie does however lack in terms of the narrative and emotional connection to the audience as a whole. Despite Edgar Allen Poe being the main star of the film, the core concept and plot intertwining him feels forced into the movie which makes the entire experience overly dramatic. Professor Von Franz played by Defoe is intelligent to say the least but feels underdeveloped which detracts from the main focus of the movie. Harris’ The Northman is better and more original due to Eggers’ basic use of science fiction, otherworldly images and reworked concepts.
In terms of cinematic ambition, Eggers’ Nosferatu is more stylistically inventive than Murnau’s silent classic and Herzog’s 1979 version, but it does lack a strong emotional connection. Cinephiles who enjoy Eggers’ creations will unmistakably see his unique style, but the artist’s work doesn’t have the unforgettable shine of “The Lighthouse” or the dramatic compelling nature of “The Northerner.”
I would rate Nosferatu a 7 out of 10. It is a visually appealing piece but as a story, it doesn’t give any new tenants to a saga that has been narrated several times. While Eggers’ aficionados or fans of gothic horror might commend his zeal, others might think it is quite a wasted chance. Like with his other films, I continue to be patient with Eggers’ new effort in the hope he will wow the viewers again.
Resources
“‘Nosferatu’: Prague-Shot Horror Film with Bill Skarsgård and Willem Dafoe Gets Full Trailer.” The Prague Reporter, 2 Oct. 2024.
‘Nosferatu’: Prague-shot horror film with Bill Skarsgård and Willem Dafoe gets full trailer
