On Christmas Day this year, Robert Eggers’ chilling “Nosferatu” was released in theaters. With impeccable storytelling, incredible acting and outstanding production value, “Nosferatu” is truly one for the books.
The foundation of this movie begins in 1922, when “Dracula” author Ben Stoker’s original “Nosferatu” was released. Even as the author, Stoker could not get the rights to “Dracula” so he created the story of Nosferatu instead, adapting it into a silent film with director F.W. Murnau.
While a hundred years apart, the plot is more or less the same. It is the 1830’s, and Ellen Hutter, played by actress Lily-Rose Depp, has been plagued by dreams of darkness and uneasy feelings throughout her entire life. These sensations seemed to falter when she met her husband Thomas Hutter, portrayed by actor Nicholas Hoult.
However, as Thomas prepares to go off on a business trip to sell a house to a mysterious stranger, Ellen’s nightmares return with a vengeance. She is terrified of what will happen to her husband, and explains in great detail her morbid dreams. She feels as though someone or something divine is calling out to her, an unexplainable dark force.
Thomas embarks on his journey to Transylvania to visit the stranger, Count Orlok, who is played masterfully by Bill Skarsgård, and chaos ensues. It is revealed that Count Orlok is the root of Ellen’s nightmares; he has a deep, twisted obsession with her, and pursues her mercilessly.
The story itself is one of otherworldly development, spiraling and undulating with villainous turns, and incredible dialogue — both historically accurate and emotionally raw.
Since its release, many Aliso Niguel students have seen, or are planning to see the movie with their friends.
Ami Yaghini (12) recounts, “I enjoyed the more authentic and classic take on the vampire story and the portrayal of Nosferatu as not a misunderstood antihero, but as a vicious villain like the source material intended him to be. I also overall enjoyed the movie’s gothic aesthetic.”
Aside from the writing, the production and post-production elements of the film are utterly spectacular. Impeccable costume designs by Linda Muir, who truly delved into the task of creating clothing with a unique style while remaining consistent with historical details, elevated the film to a new level.
Korvin Fune (12) explains, “I feel that the cinematography was the best part since there were really cool shots that paid homage to the original film while also giving the new one its own visual identity.”
With a combination of locations, intricate set designs and props, as well as color editing and unique cinematography, “Nosferatu” is a masterpiece in its own right. Not to mention the show stopping performances by the entire cast.
Notably, Lily-Rose Depp shone like a diamond in her role as Ellen. She researched and was coached in seizure-like convulsions that she would have to do in order to appear possessed, and her emotional range throughout the film was impressively versatile.
Similarly, Bill Skarsgård brought an incredible performance, developing a specific deep voice for Count Orlok’s character. He also practiced his movements carefully, making each deliberate and unsettling.
Any ANHS students who are interested in horror should see this film immediately, although be warned there is some inappropriate material.
Overall, the dedication of the entire cast and production crew is nothing short of inspiring. The creative storytelling, camera angles, acting, set design and so much more all contributed to what is without a doubt the best horror movie of the year.
