When she was just a young girl, something strange, terrifying, and highly unexplainable happened to Ellen (Lily-Rose Depp). Now, in Germany in 1838, she feels haunted by an unknown presence. Recently married to Thomas Hutter (Nicholas Hoult), Ellen hopes for a peaceful life while Thomas focuses on his efforts to sell a property.
When a new opportunity arises to prove himself, Thomas must travel to Transylvania to meet a man named Count Orlok (Bill Skarsgård). Before Thomas reveals the news to his wife, Ellen is consumed by a sense of heaviness and sadness, sensing that tragic events are on the horizon. As Thomas embarks on his journey, Ellen remains haunted by a presence that is increasingly obsessed with her. Can Ellen uncover the truth behind the supernatural hauntings plaguing her?
For those who may not know, Nosferatu is a film that blends supernatural horror with dark fantasy and mystery elements. The screenplay was written by Robert Eggers and is based on the original screenplay by Henrik Galeen and the novel Dracula by Bram Stoker. If you enjoy classic vampire-themed horror films, you will surely appreciate what this movie offers. Directed and written by Robert Eggers, known for his previous works such as The Lighthouse (2019), The Witch (2015), and The Northman (2022), Nosferatu promises an experience consistent with Eggers’s unique style. Viewers familiar with his films can expect a storyline that pushes the boundaries of the horror genre.
Once again, Eggers delivers a visually stunning film. The entire movie has a dark, cold, and eerie atmosphere. Throughout, many creative moments will impress and captivate viewers. One notable example is the image of a shadowy hand covering a small community, along with various innovative camera techniques. The set designs, including the interiors and exteriors of houses, feel incredibly realistic. This realism also extends to the costumes and makeup, effectively contributing to the film’s fantasy setting.
Regarding pacing, I can’t deny that the film takes a while to get started. Overall, it has a relatively slow pace, and the duration is felt- nothing in this film is fast-paced. It is a slow-burning horror reminiscent of classics that many film enthusiasts may have seen before. Once the film moved past its first act and introduced the various characters and the stakes, I became much more invested in how the story would unfold. Several standout performances are worth mentioning, including those by Lily-Rose Depp, Willem Dafoe, and the unforgettable Bill Skarsgård as Count Orlok, who once again appears genuinely unrecognisable on screen.
Overall, Nosferatu feels like a classic vampire story, rich with darkness and cinematic depth. Robert Eggers delivers another stunning visual experience filled with tense and unsettling moments. The narrative is unpredictable and packed with tragic elements, complemented by compelling performances from actors like Lily-Rose Depp, Willem Dafoe, and, most notably, Bill Skarsgård as Count Orlok, who brings a unique character to life. Fans of horror, fantasy, and classic cinema should keep this film on their radar. Those who appreciate Eggers’ work will again be left in awe of this gothic tale!
Nosferatu (2024) is available in Australian Cinemas starting on January 1st!
FILM SCORE: 9.0/10
Published: 15th December 2024
Written by: Peter Walkden
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