Robert Eggers’s latest film, Nosferatu, transports viewers to the chilling yet strangely cozy fictional port city of Wisberg, set in 19th-century Central Europe. While the plot revolves around dark themes, including a plague and a predatory immortal creature, there’s a certain allure to the film’s unsettling ambiance, suggesting that Wisberg could be an unexpected choice for a romantic winter escape.
The film’s narrative follows Thomas Hutter, played by Nicholas Hoult, as he attempts to secure a real estate deal with the enigmatic Count Orlok, portrayed by Bill Skarsgård. Little does Hutter know, he is unknowingly caught in a web of sinister motives that involve his bride Ellen, played by Lily-Rose Depp.
Eggers’s ability to create a comforting atmosphere—despite the story’s grim backdrop—shines through the film’s stunning production design. The real estate office, with its creaky wood, smoky interiors, and the warm glow of flames, sets a cozy yet eerie stage. Throughout the film, scenes take on an inviting character, even those set in supposed harrowing locations, like Count Orlok’s decrepit castle, where the dust dancing in the dim light adds an unexpected charm.
Drawing from his background in production design, Eggers, alongside his collaborators, has meticulously crafted environments that evoke a sense of warmth and shelter, even in extreme circumstances. This juxtaposition of coldness and comfort creates a unique credibility within his films, exemplified in past works such as The Witch and The Lighthouse.
Eggers articulates a profound truth: the experience of warmth is heightened by the awareness of its absence. This concept, evocative of vampiric themes, sheds light on the bittersweet nature of desire and comfort within suffering.
In essence, while Nosferatu may not initially appear as a fitting backdrop for romantic escapism, its skillful orchestration of chilling yet cozy elements offers a compelling reason to explore the depths of Eggers’s artistry, perhaps prompting newfound appreciation in darkness.
This film not only captivates through its aesthetics but could also encourage viewers to find beauty and warmth even in the most unexpected places. As we embrace the seasonal chill, Nosferatu invites us to reflect on our connections, both warm and cold, ultimately revealing the layered complexities of human experiences.