Review: Nosferatu (2024)

'His lordship likes the pretty ones best.'

★★★½

Lily-Rose Depp stars as Ellen Hutter in the latest remake of the 1922 film, "Nosferatu," who becomes the obsession of the enigmatic vampire Count Orlok, portrayed by Bill Skarsgård. Set in 1838 Germany, the film follows Ellen's descent into madness as supernatural events unfold, leading to a chilling climax where she sacrifices herself to end Orlok's reign of terror.

The 2024 remake of "Nosfeatu" is a dark, gory, and moody film, with superb performances, an interesting atmosphere, an almost gothic Tim Burton-style film, and great camera work. The setup is worth it, even though the second half does slow down a whole lot. I can forgive that, however, mostly thanks to the performances and tension. This is what I feel most horror films lack. Tension and proper story telling.

The film's attention to detail in its set design and costuming also deserves commendation, as they contribute significantly to the immersive experience. The haunting score amplifies the emotional weight of the scenes, drawing the audience deeper into the narrative. Additionally, the character development is surprisingly rich for a horror film, providing viewers with backstories that evoke empathy, making the stakes feel even higher.

I particularly enjoyed how the film plays with classic horror tropes while adding a fresh twist, keeping audiences on their toes. The climax is a breathtaking culmination of the tension built throughout and is packed with unexpected turns that leave you breathless. While the pacing issues in the latter half may frustrate some, I found that it allowed for a deeper exploration of the characters' psyches.

I know that Lily-Rose Depp (Ellen Hutter) receives a lot of negative criticism for her acting, but it was terrific. She perfectly captured her character's love, fear, happiness, sadness, and the various emotions she experienced throughout the film. Not many actors can portray such a range of emotions. In Lily-Rose Depp's case, we can likely thank her father, the legendary Johnny Depp, for passing on his acting talent to her.

In essence, "Nosferatu" isn't just about scares; it delves into the human experience, fear, and isolation, making it a standout in the genre. It’s the kind of film that stays with you long after the credits roll, prompting reflection on both the narrative and its themes.

Furthermore, the cinematography deserves mention for its stunning visuals that complement the story's emotional beats. Each frame feels meticulously crafted, with lighting that enhances the eerie atmosphere while also providing moments of beauty and stark contrast. The film's visual storytelling adds layers to the experience, allowing viewers to interpret the characters' feelings even without dialogue.

Overall, "Nosferatu" elevates the horror genre by focusing on the emotional resonance of its story rather than relying solely on jump scares. It reminds us that true horror often lies in our own fears and the fragility of the human condition, making it a memorable and poignant entry that invites conversation long after the viewing experience is over.