The 1922 silent film Nosferatu, directed by F. W. Murnau, holds a remarkable place in the history of cinema. As one of the earliest examples of the horror genre, it continues to attract audiences even after more than a century.
Murnau’s Nosferatu is not only a classic of German expressionism but also a milestone in the evolution of horror filmmaking. The film’s influence can still be felt today in the genre, and its iconic vampire, Count Orlok, remains one of the most terrifying and recognizable figures in cinematic history.
The release of Robert Eggers’ 2024 remake of Nosferatu has sparked renewed interest in the original, as fans and newcomers alike eagerly anticipate this new version of the gothic tale.
The Original Nosferatu: A Timeless Masterpiece
F. W. Murnau’s Nosferatu was inspired by Bram Stoker’s famous novel Dracula. However, due to the lack of permission from Stoker’s estate, the filmmakers were forced to create a new version of the story, with significant changes to the names and details.
Count Orlok, the vampire in the film, is based on the character of Count Dracula, but his appearance and name were altered enough to avoid legal repercussions.
Despite the changes, Nosferatu retained the essence of Stoker’s story — a young man named Hutter travels to the mysterious castle of a vampire, only to find himself at the mercy of a creature who feeds on the life force of others.
In terms of its style, Nosferatu is a shining example of German expressionism, a movement that sought to convey emotional truths through distorted and exaggerated visuals. The film’s eerie atmosphere is enhanced by its use of light and shadow, creating a sense of dread and unease that permeates every frame.
The expressionistic sets, with their angular, distorted shapes, contribute to the otherworldly feel of the film, making the world of Nosferatu both surreal and nightmarish.
One of the most notable aspects of Nosferatu is its portrayal of the vampire. Count Orlok, played by Max Schreck, is unlike any vampire that came before him. With his elongated fingers, pointed ears, and bald head, Orlok is a grotesque figure, his appearance both repulsive and fascinating.
His movements, slow and deliberate, add to his terrifying presence, making him seem more like a predatory animal than a human being. This portrayal of the vampire set the tone for many future films in the genre and has influenced countless portrayals of vampires in both film and television.
Despite being made nearly a century ago, Nosferatu remains a touchstone of the horror genre, admired for its innovative use of visuals, its haunting atmosphere, and its unforgettable depiction of evil.
Robert Eggers’ Nosferatu: A Modern Rebirth
After more than 100 years, the haunting tale of Nosferatu is being retold for a new generation. Director Robert Eggers, known for his work on The Witch (2015) and The Lighthouse (2019), is taking the reins of this highly anticipated remake. Eggers is well-regarded for his skill in creating visually striking and deeply atmospheric films, and fans of his previous works are eager to see how he will approach this classic horror story.
The decision to remake Nosferatu comes after years of development. The project has been in the works for nearly a decade, and the anticipation surrounding it has only grown over time.
Eggers, who has shown a keen interest in showing dark, gothic themes in his previous films, is an ideal choice to bring this classic story into the modern age. His ability to create tension through visual storytelling and his expertise in crafting historical narratives suggest that Nosferatu will be a film that both honors the original and adds new layers to the story.
Early reactions to the remake have been overwhelmingly positive, with critics praising Eggers’ direction and the film’s atmospheric visuals. The remake has been described as a faithful recreation of the original while also expanding upon it, adding new depth and meaning to the characters and themes.
Eggers’ interpretation of the vampire, portrayed by Bill Skarsgård, promises to be just as chilling as Max Schreck’s iconic performance. Early reviews highlight the film’s unsettling atmosphere, its lush cinematography, and its performances, all of which suggest that Eggers has successfully captured the essence of Nosferatu while making it his own.
For fans of horror, the upcoming remake of Nosferatu is a major event. The film is expected to bring a new level of intensity and terror to the classic story, while also introducing it to a new generation of moviegoers who may not be familiar with the original. With the talented team behind the remake and the rich history of the story itself, there is much to look forward to in this modern retelling.
When and Where Can You Watch Nosferatu?
If you’re eager to experience Nosferatu for yourself, there are a few ways to do so. The upcoming remake is set to be released in the United States on December 25, 2024, just in time for the holiday season.
This marks the latest in a series of high-profile releases scheduled for Christmas Day, including films like Babygirl, The Fire Inside, and A Complete Unknown, a biopic of Bob Dylan starring Timothée Chalamet.
For fans of gothic horror, Nosferatu is one of the most highly anticipated films of the year, and its release will undoubtedly attract large audiences looking to experience the dark beauty of Eggers’ vision.
For those who prefer to watch the film from the comfort of their own home, Nosferatu will eventually be available for streaming. While there is no official streaming release date yet, the film is being distributed by Focus Features in the United States and Universal Pictures internationally.
The film will likely be available on streaming platforms like Peacock after its theatrical run. Peacock currently hosts a wide range of films from Focus Features and Universal, so it would not be surprising to see Nosferatu added to their library soon.
In addition to the upcoming remake, you can also stream the original Nosferatu online. The film, which has been preserved and restored over the years, is available to rent or purchase on Prime Video. Alternatively, you can stream it for free on PlutoTV, which offers a range of classic films for viewers interested in showing the roots of cinema.
The Legacy of Nosferatu: A Horror Classic
The legacy of Nosferatu is undeniable. As one of the earliest examples of horror cinema, it set the stage for countless films that followed. Its influence can be seen in everything from the iconic Dracula films to modern vampire tales like The Lost Boys and Twilight.
The film’s visual style, its depiction of evil, and its atmosphere of dread have inspired generations of filmmakers and continue to be studied by cinephiles and horror fans alike.
Beyond its technical achievements, Nosferatu is also a powerful scheme of fear and obsession. The story of Count Orlok and his infatuation with the young woman Ellen taps into deep themes of desire, mortality, and the human fascination with the supernatural.
These themes resonate just as strongly today as they did when the film was first released, and they will undoubtedly be done further in Eggers’ remake.
In many ways, Nosferatu is a film that never stops evolving. With the 2024 remake, the story of Count Orlok will find new life, capturing the imaginations of viewers once again. Whether you’re a fan of the original or a newcomer to the tale, Nosferatu remains one of the most essential and enduring films in the horror genre.
