The recent resurgence of classic horror tales has taken center stage with the release of Robert Eggers’ much-anticipated remake of Nosferatu, which debuted on Christmas Day. Drawing from the iconic 1922 silent film and Bram Stoker's Dracula, the film is quickly becoming one of the most notable entries to the genre, delivering both box office success and strong reception from critics.
Eggers’ Nosferatu, starring Bill Skarsgård as the notorious Count Orlok, Lily-Rose Depp as Ellen, and Nicholas Hoult as Thomas Hutter, managed to generate approximately $7 million on its opening day alone. It is projected to earn about $40 million across the extended holiday weekend, marking this as Eggers' highest-grossing film yet and putting it on track to join the coveted $100 million club.
The film, boasting a current 86% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, has already captured the attention of moviegoers with its dark and alluring visual style. Critics have hailed it as the best horror film of the year. According to Collider's Jeff Ewing, Nosferatu isn't merely another horror narrative; it is “easily one of 2024's best overall” films. Such acclaim places the film firmly at the vanguard of contemporary horror cinema.
Eggers, known for his commitment to authenticity, found unique ways to authenticate the setting and scenes. Employing 5,000 rats on set created genuine interactions between characters, eleviating CGI for moments of terror. This decision to utilize real animals was praised by actor Willem Dafoe, who noted the excitement and grounding of working with tangible creatures rather than digital creations. "It makes it exciting. It makes it special. It puts you there," Dafoe expressed. This hands-on approach has helped shape the gritty atmosphere of Nosferatu.
Alongside the use of live animals, the set design transported viewers back to the 1830s, immersing them fully within the Gothic horror world. Nicholas Hoult, who portrays Thomas Hutter, shared the challenges of filming visceral scenes where he was chased by trained dogs. “Before the scene, I was physically trying to get myself exhausted... there was one time where I slipped trying to get out the window and I was like, 'Oh no, what happens when they get me',” he recounted, emphasizing the blend of fear and realism during production. He humorously concluded, “I guess they’d have just started licking my face maybe.”
Columbus, who served as a producer on Nosferatu, reflected on how directing previous blockbuster films shaped his philosophy for empowering Eggers’ creative vision. Encouraged by the lessons from directing Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, Columbus emphasized, “We never say no to the director,” attributing much of the film’s success to this collaborative ethos.
Despite being coated with horror elements, many feel Nosferatu aligns well with the festive season, presenting its dark tale with respect and conviction. Reviewers have noted its ability to envelop viewers like “a warm comfort blanket.” Xan Brooks, writing for The Independent, conveyed this sentiment succinctly, saying the film feels surprisingly suitable for holiday viewing.
The release of Nosferatu is not only significant for its retro reimagining, but it also continues the legacy imposed by its predecessors. Critics have backed this notion with glowing reviews, remarking on how Eggers has succeeded in reincarnakaing Count Orlok with depth and psychological insights. This fresh interpretation is made evident by the visceral nature of storytelling, which Eggers aims to honor throughout the film.
Upon more evaluations within film discussions, audiences eagerly anticipate how Nosferatu will fare against formidable competition like Mufasa: The Lion King and Sonic the Hedgehog 3, which are also drawing impressive box office numbers this holiday season.
Overall, Robert Eggers’ rendition of Nosferatu sets the stage for both box office triumph and cultural discourse within the horror genre. With strong performances from its cast, innovative production techniques, and favorable reviews, the film is already being heralded as one of the standout releases of 2024. For fans of horror and cinema alike, this cinematic venture is proof of the genre's enduring allure and the potential for classic tales to reinvent themselves for new generations.
Currently showing wide across theaters, Nosferatu is poised to draw even larger audiences as it opens internationally, starting with the UK on New Year’s Day.
