Dead Beats Reviews: Nosferatu

As the lights dimmed and the audience (mostly) hushed, Nosferatu opens with a blank screen and a quiet lullaby followed by heart-wrenching tears. Immediately, we are thrown into the familiar yet unfamiliar as we witness Ellen (Lily-Rose Depp) make her first contact with Count Orlock (Bill Skarsgård). The words, “You are not made for the living” ring out in a tone that haunts for the rest of the picture. In terms of iconic opening scenes, Nosferatu is no doubt one that will be permanently etched into my brain. If the whole movie after this was horrible, it would have been worth it just for those few minutes (luckily this wasn’t the case).

    This film is engrossed in both beauty and horror, much like Eggers’ other films. Every shot is utterly breathtaking, even the most horrifying moments. This is in part due to incredible casting. Often people in period pieces tend to look too modern and out of place for the period they’re trying to portray, but here, everyone fits perfectly for this Victorian-era film. You can tell that these actors have a deep love for their craft and the story as well. This, in combination with the deliciously detailed sets and costumes as well as the lighting to pay homage to the original black and white film, leaves the viewer feeling totally immersed and struck by everything they’re being shown. There is no forgettable moment, every single second has a purpose. 

Again, much like his other films, there is such an examination of the time that it’s placed in, with careful attention to detail when it comes to the human condition and the loneliness of it. Eggers truly understood the complexity of the Victorians’ relationship with sex and sexuality and their disgust and reverence for it. Anguish and desperation radiate through the screen as we live alongside these characters and their vampiric plight up until the very end as Ellen is laid with lavender. 

This review is purposely vague as I think everyone really needs to watch this movie without a clear picture of what to expect. I hope it surprises you with the grotesque as well as the jaw-dropping beauty of every frame.