Robert Eggers' Nosferatu, with its 132-minute runtime and years of development, stands as a testament to the evolution of horror. It seamlessly weaves together elements from various classic horror films, creating a unique and captivating masterpiece.

Uncover the Legacy of Horror in Robert Eggers' Nosferatu

An Adaptation of Classic Fairy Tales

Jean Cocteau's "Beauty and the Beast" sets the stage with its 18th-century visual style. The decadent costumes and black-and-white cinematography create a dreamlike yet nightmarish atmosphere. Just like in Nosferatu, the beauty is in the darkness.The monochrome visuals, with their sharp contrasts and surreal quality, are reminiscent of Nosferatu. The scene in the pitch-black hallway lit by candelabras is a prime example of how these films use lighting to create an unsettling mood.

The Origins of German Expressionism

Watching Robert Wiene's silent movie "The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari" exposes us to the filmmaking techniques that still influence horror today. Chiaroscuro lighting, jagged buildings, and twisted backgrounds add to the creepy atmosphere.The older camera technology, with its scratches and eerie glow, gives the scenes an extra layer of creepiness. It's clear how directors like Tim Burton and Robert Eggers draw inspiration from these early works.

Inspiration from Gothic Ghost Movies

Jack Clayton's "The Innocents" is praised by Eggers as one of the best gothic ghost movies. The cinematography, with its special glass filters and tight framing, creates a cocoon-like effect and makes the spaces feel oppressive.The careful positioning of the actors against the intricate architecture of the mansion adds to the otherworldly presence. It's a visually stunning yet deeply unsettling film that will influence Nosferatu.

Family Ties in Horror

Lily-Rose Depp, in "Nosferatu," follows in her father Johnny Depp's footsteps in classic horror. Both "Sleepy Hollow" and "Nosferatu" are set in the 18th and 19th centuries and share a grim, Gothic color palette.While "Sleepy Hollow" has a more cartoonish vibe, "Nosferatu" appears more sensuous and classical. The elaborate gowns and ripped bodices add to the overall aesthetic.

Hypersexual Adaptations

Gary Oldman's performance as Vlad the Impaler in Francis Ford Coppola's "Dracula" is over-the-top and goofy. The colorful and splashy style suits the character's decadence and desire.The camerawork that whirls through the castle creates an epic adaptation. It even includes visual homages to the original "Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror," adding to its charm.

Bill Skarsgård's Transformative Roles

Skarsgård's portrayal of Pennywise in "It" shows his commitment to physical transformation. The grotesque prosthetics and his eerie physicality make him a terrifying presence.His ability to shift from a light and fluffy voice to a gruff and menacing one is truly remarkable. This will likely be on display again in "Nosferatu."

The Lighthouse: A Claustrophobic Experience

Shot in black-and-white and filled with salty language, "The Lighthouse" immerses us in a claustrophobic island setting. Willem Dafoe and Robert Pattinson's descent into madness is a dizzying spectacle.The ending leaves a haunting image that lingers in our minds. It's a film that showcases Eggers' ability to create a tense and immersive atmosphere.

The Witch: A Folkloric Tale

Eggers' debut film "The Witch" immerses us in the daily life of Puritan New England. The tension and mistrust build gradually, leading to a mystical and sinful finale.After watching it, we'll never view goats the same way again. This film establishes Eggers' unique style and love for folkloric tales.

Bela Lugosi's Influence

Bela Lugosi's portrayal of Count Dracula in Tod Browning's 1931 version is the quintessential archetype. His mysterious and monstrous presence, along with his regal cape and hypnotic stare, is unforgettable.The Gothic elegance of the film is more seductive than frightening, a quality that Nosferatu may draw upon.

Meta Casting and Film History

In "Nosferatu," Willem Dafoe plays Professor Albin Eberhart von Franz and also portrayed Max Schreck in "Shadow of the Vampire." This clever premise adds an unsettling layer to the film.The fictionalized account of the making of "Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror" creates humorous and chilling moments. It shows the connection between different films in horror history.

The 1922 Original: The Infancy of Horror

F.W. Murnau's "Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror" is a silent film that laid the foundation for modern horror. The exaggerated gestures and tilted camera angles are still influential.Images from the film, such as Orlok's shadow and Ellen's collapse, are powerful and unforgettable. It's a testament to the artistry and innovation of the early horror genre.