Robert Eggers’s latest film, Nosferatu, presents a dark and chilling world that might seem unsuitable for romance at first glance. With its unsettling themes—including children in peril and a plague-stricken city—it’s not your typical picturesque escape. However, the film’s setting in the fictional port city of Wisberg possesses an undeniable coziness that makes it a compelling backdrop for a snowy romantic getaway, despite the film’s ominous atmosphere.
The film opens with protagonist Thomas Hutter, played by Nicholas Hoult, arriving at a charming yet eerie real estate office, where he meets Herr Knock, portrayed by Simon McBurney. Knock presents Thomas with an enticing but treacherous opportunity to close a deal with the reclusive Count Orlok, a character that embodies the film’s menacing undertones. Audience members may find themselves emotionally invested in Hutter’s quest, as he seeks to provide for his future bride, Ellen, played by Lily-Rose Depp.
What stands out visually throughout Nosferatu is the painstakingly crafted environment. The real estate office, filled with the sounds of creaking wood and soft whispers, creates an immersive experience. Thomas’s warm and inviting appearance further enhances this sensory experience, encouraging the viewer to linger in this world despite its inherent darkness.
The sense of comfort extends beyond the office to other locations within the film, including the opulent estate of Thomas’s friends, which evokes feelings of warmth and domestic bliss. Even the unsettling scenes within the foreboding Count Orlok’s castle are rendered almost enchanting, with floating dust motes illuminated by flickering light—contributing to a cozy, intriguing ambiance that contrasts sharply with the film’s narrative.
Eggers’s unique filmmaking style draws attention to the complex relationship between warmth and cold. His films often highlight a beautiful sense of shelter amid chaos and despair, as seen in his previous works like The Witch, The Lighthouse, and The Northman. This thematic juxtaposition invites viewers to appreciate warmth and comfort even during bleak moments. In fact, it posits an encouraging notion—that perhaps we must understand and embrace hardship to truly value joy and solace.
In conclusion, while Nosferatu may delve into the macabre, it also evokes a sense of heartwarming coziness that might just make Wisberg a sought-after romantic destination—plague notwithstanding. The film beautifully illustrates that even in the darkest of narratives, there can be a flicker of warmth waiting to be discovered. This reminder that comfort resides alongside discomfort is both poignant and hopeful.