Nosferatu, the latest horror offering from acclaimed director Robert Eggers, has made headlines with its astonishing debut at the box office, raking in $40.8 million since its Christmas Day release. The film, which has captivated audiences with its gripping retelling of the classic vampire tale, marks one of the strongest openings for any horror film during the typically family-oriented holiday season.
Released by Focus Features, Nosferatu's impressive earnings came from 2,992 theaters across North America. The film brought in $21.6 million over the traditional weekend, showcasing its broad appeal and strong marketing efforts. “The movie itself delivers, and that's always the most important thing,” said Lisa Bunnell, head of distribution at Focus Features. This statement echoes the sentiments of many filmgoers who braved the cold to see Eggers' latest project, leaving the theater with impactful impressions.
Starring Bill Skarsgård as the titular vampire, Count Orlok, alongside Nicholas Hoult and Lily-Rose Depp, the film follows the chilling story of Orlok’s obsession with Ellen Hutter (played by Depp). The gothic reimagining also features Willem Dafoe, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and Emma Corrin, crafting an ensemble cast brimming with talent. Even with its darker and more mature themes, the film has captivated younger audiences, who comprise a significant portion of its ticket buyers.
Despite being unconventional as a Christmas release, the film’s performance redefines expectations for horror cinema during the holiday seasons. The initial projections had set the bar lower, estimating $25 million, which Nosferatu overshadowed with astonishing finesse. Eggers has made his mark with prior films such as The Witch, The Lighthouse, and The Northman, but Nosferatu is his biggest success to date. Bunnell added, “Nosferatu isn’t your typical horror movie. It’s elevated, from an auteur director, and fits the awards conversation for cinematography and costumes.”
What's particularly noteworthy is the film's reception and how it draws from unique visual styles and horror conventions. It offers a fresh spin on the narrative from F.W. Murnau's original 1922 classic, adding graphic elements and modern storytelling techniques. Notably, Eggers has introduced scenes where Orlok drinks from people's chests rather than their necks, updating the vampire lore for contemporary audiences. With this approach, Eggers retains the essence of the classic story whilst enhancing its emotional and visual depth.
Critical reception has been largely favorable, contributing to its box office momentum. Currently holding 86% on Rotten Tomatoes, the film has sparked discussions about its place among the year’s top horror films. “We were able to turn it [Nosferatu] to become an event, and it worked tremendously,” remarked Bunnell, emphasizing how the combination of Eggers’ notoriety, the hype surrounding its release, and the stellar cast helped create buzz leading up to Christmas.
This is especially significant considering the history of horror films at the box office, where family-oriented films often dominate holiday releases. Previous big holiday titles include Sonic the Hedgehog 3 and Mufasa, which typically feature light-hearted, family-friendly themes. Nosferatu’s ability to break through this mold reveals shifting audience preferences, indicating higher acceptance of diverse genres during the holiday season.
Industry analysts provide insights indicating the long-reaching symbolic meaning behind Nosferatu’s success. The film has not only performed well compared to Eggers' past works but also made its way onto the list of highest-grossing horror films of 2024, securing the number six spot after merely five days. Given its continued release, predictions place the film on track to outperform its competitors like Terrifier 3.
Moving forward, the film’s box office future appears promising. The horror aspect resonates with audiences craving something beyond the traditional genres common during the holidays, showcasing the evolution of what theatrical offerings can encompass. Enthusiastic word-of-mouth and active discussions among cinema-goers strongly signal staying power and potential longevity at the box office.
Clearly, Eggers’ Nosferatu makes its mark amid various films vying for viewer attention. The ultimate success of this film is not just about reaching impressive numbers but also signifies the broader acceptance of unique and bold stories within the film industry. With plans for its transition to streaming services on the horizon, audiences who missed it on the big screen will surely have their chance to experience this creature of the night.