Robert Eggers’ “Nosferatu” is the latest Gothic horror film to hit theaters, starring Bill Skarsgård and Lily-Rose Depp. The remake of F.W. Murnau’s 1922 classic has already received widespread critical acclaim, with an impressive 86% “fresh” rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on 180 reviews.
The official logline for the film reads: “A gothic tale of obsession between a haunted young woman and the terrifying vampire infatuated with her.” Skarsgård stars as Count Orlok, a decrepit vampire obsessed with Ellen Hutter (Depp), the wife of a real estate agent sent to Transylvania to find a new estate for Orlok.
Directors’ vision:
Critics praise director Robert Eggers’ masterful take on the film. RT Critics Consensus reads: “Marvelously orchestrated by director Robert Eggers, Nosferatu is a behemoth of a horror film that is equal parts repulsive and seductive.” BBC critic Nicholas Barber adds, “What really separates Eggers’ Nosferatu from the flock is how deeply it explores the images and themes of vampire lore.”
Not all critics agree. Richard Brody of The New Yorker gives the film a “rotten” review, citing its coherence as a drawback. Richard Lawson of Vanity Fair also expresses disappointment, stating that “nothing is particularly scary.” Katie Walsh, however, finds the retelling too faithful to its inspiration, resulting in an “utterly hamstrung” experience.
Despite mixed reviews, many critics praise Eggers’ vision and the film’s ability to evoke a strong sense of horror. With a 81% “fresh” rating on Popcornmeter based on over 100 reviews, it seems that “Nosferatu” has already won over many hearts. The film is now available in theaters, marking a fitting return to the Gothic horror genre this Christmas.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/timlammers/2024/12/25/nosferatu-reviews-does-bill-skarsgrds-vampire-thriller-have-bite