Nosferatu (2024)

Set in 1838 Germany, a young wife (Lily Rose Depp) is haunted by the spectre of a Transylvanian vampire called Nosferatu (Bill Skarsgard) who she gave herself to as a girl out of loneliness. After her marriage to a real estate agent (Nicholas Hoult), the vampire has left her alone but he is only biding his time. A remake of the 1922 silent classic by F.W. Murnau (itself inspired by Bram Stoker's DRACULA) and directed by Robert Eggers (THE WITCH). Quite simply, a superb horror film, an instant classic. Dripping with atmosphere and drenched in mood as well as dread, Eggers isn't interest in scaring us but in exploring the psychological horror inflicted on Depp's bride. While his presence is continually felt, the vampire is a supporting character as the emotionally bereft wife takes center stage. This is really Depp's movie. Although shot in color, Jarin Blaschke's monochromatic texture gives the movie a B&W sheen. My only (and minor) complaint is its nod to THE EXORCIST. Effective yes but the film didn't need it. Horror fans should embrace this one! With Willem Dafoe, Aaron Taylor Johnson, Simon McBurney and Emma Corrin.