Nosferatu

Nosferatu is foundational in the horror genre. Adapting from Dracula it conveys themes of lust, sexuality, madness, death, and primal nature. The simplistic plot has an efficient setup/payoff and surmounting tension. The archetypal characters (are archaic by modern horror standards) provide motivations that drive the narrative.

Couching metaphors of fear of the Other and unlicensed sex in horror provides important horror commentary. The exaggerated acting provides theatricality in this Gothic world that exacerbates the madness that is juxtaposed with the inhuman demeanor of the villain. Overall Nosferatu is a classic that endures.

Technically Nosferatu is a mood piece. Synergizing German expressionism and naturalism it conveys a theatrical Goth piece. Exaggerated shadows and angles combined with stop motion make the imagery unforgettable. The impressionistic editing builds inserts that create fear. The nonexistent sound builds the horror and cranks the tension.

The nonstop score has diversified range and propels the mood. The production design is archaic yet conveys an era, scale, and an iconic monster. The cast is the perfect fit being indistinguishable from the film. The minimal effects utilize makeup, stop motion and superimposition. Thus Nosferatu is an artistic marvel.

Writing:10/10

Direction:10/10

Cinematography:10/10

Acting:8/10

Editing:9/10

Sound:7/10

Score:9/10

Prod design: 9/10

Casting:10/10

Effects:7/10

Overall Score:8.9/10