Nosferatu Review: Comparing Nosferatu (2024) to the original.

Watch the trailer for this spooky boy right here.

Robert Eggers' movies are always a trip. Naturally, I did not expect anything different from Eggers' rendition of Nosferatu. Let's dig in.

I find myself weary of re-makes when the original films are seen as perfect or awfully close. The original's staying power, critical acclaim, and influence would probably warrant apprehension from me in most cases. However, I took the liberty of watching the 1922 original, finishing it just ten minutes before heading to the theatre to watch the 21st-century version. The original is undoubtedly a masterpiece deserving of its spot as one of the best ever; yet we cannot deny that those acclimated to modern horror standards may find it to be an artifact rather than an experience of genuine terror. The original silent film accompanied by a symphony is inevitably bound to the era it defined a century ago, and so we were due for an ode to the original from someone prepared to adapt the work to today's standards of horror (and film in general). I have no qualms with a re-make, and personally, I was ecstatic to see Robert Eggers take the helm.

Eggers & friends do not opt for much deviation from the original's story in the first half. (By the way, the "original story" I am referring to is the 1922 Nosferatu and not Bram Stoker's Dracula novel, from which the original Nosferatu heavily borrowed. I haven't read the novel.) Instead, they opt to do what the original film could not do: High-quality atmosphere, visuals, and of course, dialogue. The atmosphere and accompanying visuals are one of Eggers' greatest strengths, and this shows throughout the film, ultimately being what I would say was my favorite part. Further, the dialogue was compelling, and I would even go as far as to suggest that it fills in the gaps that the original could not. It allowed for exposition that strengthens the telling– and the terror. A dark tone with a clear love of the original's design, feel, and story is evident, and lovers of the original will likely be pleased. The film was clearly made by a director who is a fan of the original, and he handled the re-make with care. 

The second portion of the film begins to innovate (or rather, deviate) a little. While I will not spoil anything, let's just say it is as fucked up as we might expect from Eggers. As many great horror films often do, we are meant to feel a little bit of lasting dread, and the film delivers on that promise. The performances throughout are excellent and the atmosphere is borderline flawless– although I may be biased because, for whatever reason, I love depictions of a life I'll never live. I'll consult my therapist about that one. A mild complaint I had was that the film was perhaps too fast in the later portions. The first half maintained a pace true to the original, while I felt the second half had haunting moments that could have held us in the dread just a bit longer.

I still lean toward the original character design in Orlok’s exaggerated features, and I could do without the mustache in the new character design (I cannot grow a mustache, so maybe I'm just jealous). 1922's Orlok with his elongated fingers, pointy beard, hairless appearance, and hunched posture are exceptional, and serve as a brilliant, timeless piece of German expressionism. It is tough to beat that, even with what modern accoutrements can offer.

Having watched both films yesterday, I think both are well worth a watch (back to back if you're up for it). 2024's Nosferatu manages to succeed in innovating on the original presentation for modern audiences while creating horror that literally had my jaw wide open at points. Further, the re-make recognizes the importance of holding true to the story that helped make the first film one of the most iconic movies ever made and thus emerges as a comparable piece because of its willingness to respect the original while deviating only sparingly. Audiences who love either (or both) Eggers' films and 1922's Nosferatu will find much to enjoy about this one.

Rating: 4/5

P.S. I've heard about the 1979 re-make... But I haven't seen it yet. I'll add it to the watch list!

P.S.S. A friend informed me that the original Dracula had a mustache. Neat.