One hundred years ago, the ground-breaking film Nosferatu was released and with its debut, it cemented its place in history and defined screen terror. The 1922 film continues to haunt audiences until this day.
There was a court order to destroy the film due to the wishes of Bram Stoker’s widow, as she saw Nosferatu as an unauthorised adaptation of Bram Stoker’s Dracula. She was successful in bringing the court order, however, some copies escaped destruction. As a result, some of the defining images of 20th century supernatural terror have survived. A decades-long search for the best surviving material and a re-recording of the original score by Hans Erdmann now allows us to see the film exactly as it premiered 100 years ago.
Nosferatu was directed by F.W. Murnau and features Max Schreck's unforgettable performance as the vampire Count Orlok. The actor gives a masterful and chilling portrayal through his cadaverous appearance, his movement, and his demeanour.
The story revolves around real estate agent Thomas Hutter (Gustav von Wangenheim) and his wife Ellen (Greta Schröder). Hutter is sent to visit a new client, Count Orlok, who is interested in buying the house directly across the street from Hutter and his wife. On his travels, Hutter stops at an inn and when he mentions Count Orlok, the locals are beside themselves with fear. The reaction of the locals provides foreshadowing of the danger that awaits Hutter in dealing with Count Orlok.
As a viewer and one who loves a spooky film, I thoroughly enjoyed this classic movie! The film had a continuously ghostly feel to it. The shadows and light played off each other exquisitely. As we watch this film, we get to see a film genre being created. This is the blueprint of horror films.
There were several startling moments in the film, but I think that my favorite scene was when Count Orlok stood in the doorway, and he seemed to perfectly fill the space. He looked ominous. The doorway was tall with a pointed top, which mirrored Count Orlok’s tall frame and his slightly pointed head. This is the defining scene for me of this film and one that I will always recall when I think of Nosferatu. You can definitely sense that this is one of the most iconic moments in film. It was absolutely chilling!
In celebration of the centenary, Nosferatu will be returning to cinemas in the UK & Ireland throughout 2022.
Screenings will be announced via www.nosferatu100.co.uk
NOSFERATU 100th Anniversary Trailer https://youtu.be/npxhdRMYHy0
No comments:
Post a Comment