Embedded Files
Robert Eggers did it again. “Nosferatu” has taken its rightful place as the best horror film of 2024. The gloomy, dreadful atmosphere means this film is not necessarily a joy to watch, but a gripping experience nonetheless. The opening scene alone is sinister enough to make one shiver for days, but that is just the beginning.
“Nosferatu” (2024) is based on the 1922 film of the same name, as well as Bram Stoker’s famous 1887 novel “Dracula.” Some may call it a remake, but “Nosferatu” is highly original. From the stellar cinematography to the visceral performances from, well, everyone on screen, this film captures you in a world of intense yet endearing darkness.
Its muted color palette and lack of a blue sky allows the viewers to take a step into the dismal world of Ellen Hutter, played by Lily-Rose Depp. Depp’s physical acting is like nothing I have ever seen, and I feel strongly that she deserved not only an Oscar nomination—but an Oscar win for best actress. This movie could not be what it was without her relentless performance. Her acting expertly captures the physical and psychological horrors of the tortured Ellen Hutter .
No shot is wasted in this film. From the shot of Count Orlok’s ominous mansion, to the close-ups of Lily-Rose Depp’s horrified face, each frame takes the viewer deeper into the darkness.
“Nosferatu” garnered 4 Oscar Nominations, 5 BAFTA nominations, and a host of other awards, however, I think it deserved more. The Oscar nominations were for Best Makeup and Hairstyling, Costume Design, Production Design, and of course, Cinematography, which are all very well deserved. However, both the writing and acting in this film went under-appreciated.
Don’t get me wrong, the costumes were incredible. They captured the era and reflected the dark whimsy of the cursed world. The infamous villain Count Orlok, played by Bill Skarsgard, is deeply unsettling. Skarskargd holds nothing back. He even spent time with an opera coach to lower his voice an entire octave to sound more vampiric.
The cast and crew of “Nosferatu” held nothing back. It’s raw, dark, gothic, and gripping. This movie was spellbinding and will stay with me for a long time to come.
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