Robert Eggers’ reimagined ‘Nosferatu’ reboot the 1922 horror classic by amplifying its sexual undertones. The film tells the story of Ellen (Lily-Rose Depp), a woman cursed with the ability to see beyond the veil, who is plagued by erotic nightmares of Count Orlok (Bill Skarsgård). Orlok is a manifestation of Ellen’s repressed desires and loneliness.
The 1922 original was inspired by Bram Stoker’s ‘Dracula’, replacing the titular vampire with Count Orlok. Eggers’ version returns to the folkloric roots of vampirism, while staying faithful to the spirit of the original film. The director leans into the clash between life and death, light and dark, in stark contrast to the moldering decay that surrounds Orlok.
Ellen’s connection with Orlok is rooted in her spiritual sensitivity, which is viewed as a curse by society. As she becomes increasingly isolated, Ellen’s desires resurface, and she is drawn to Orlok. The two have a “mutual yearning” and a love triangle forms between her, her husband Thomas (Nicholas Hoult), and the undead Count.
Orlok’s true intentions are far from romantic: he feeds on the warm blood of the living, corrupts the innocent, and spreads deadly plague with his army of vermin. Despite his unholy nature, Orlok cannot stop his body from deteriorating, and Ellen is merely a succulent meal.
The ending sees Ellen tricking Orlok into losing his sense of time with bloodlust, ensuring her soul is purified and free. The film’s conclusion marks a triumph of good over evil, with the town saved and Orlok destroyed forever.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/danidiplacido/2024/12/29/the-sensual-horror-of-nosferatu-explained