Robert Eggers’ highly anticipated film, Nosferatu (2024), has arrived, resurrecting the legendary horror figure Count Orlok for a new generation. Released on December 25, the film pays homage to the 1922 silent classic while utilizing modern filmmaking techniques. The gothic atmosphere and eerie cinematography contribute to an overwhelming sense of dread. Audiences and critics have praised the movie’s ability to deliver true, unrelenting horror.
Critics have noted the film’s unsettling tone and striking visual style. Charles Scott from Critic’s Corner said, “It feels like stepping into a nightmare you can’t wake up from.” Shot on 35mm film, Nosferatu captures the shadow-heavy aesthetic reminiscent of early horror cinema. This choice enhances the film’s atmosphere, making the terror feel both timeless and inescapable.
Bill Skarsgård takes on the role of Count Orlok, delivering a performance that critics describe as deeply disturbing. Rocio Corvalán, a tough horror film critic, said, “I think my heart skipped a beat a couple of times just from Count Orlok’s first appearance.” Skarsgård’s portrayal leans into pure, unrelenting horror rather than the sympathetic vampire archetype. His physicality and expressions create an ominous presence that lingers long after the scene ends.
Eggers’ commitment to historical accuracy is well demonstrated in the film’s period-appropriate dialogue and use of practical effects. The director, known for The Witch and The Lighthouse, continues to prioritize authenticity in his storytelling. The ominous score, composed to heighten psychological dread, adds to the film’s immersive experience. Every detail works together to transport viewers into an inescapable nightmare.
Unlike modern horror films that often rely on jump scares, Nosferatu builds fear through suspense and atmosphere. The film avoids CGI-heavy effects in favor of practical techniques that ground the horror in realism. With its chilling performances and haunting cinematography, it stands apart from other recent vampire films. Eggers’ latest work further cements his reputation as a master of the genre.
