Review of Nosferatu (1922) by Kevin R — 17 Feb 2010

This is films first version of Dracula and is still the best. I have never read the book and probably never will but this is a great film. The official 1931 Dracula pales in comparison to this for atmosphere, chilling creepiness, excitment and horror.

Count Orlock is not the noble and well dressed vampire Dracula would become and thank god for that. He is in this film a rat like creature who spreads disease and death, not turning victims into vampires but killing them outright. There is much here vampire fans will recognize though as he needs earth from his native land to rest in and only comes out at night.

The ending introduces (so I believe I've read) the myth of sunlight killing vampires and the finale is far better than 1931's Dracula which has a dull ending in my opinion. The film is full of amazing scenes and iconic horror moments. The use of shadow is perhaps the best special effect after Shrecks makeup. Shows the simple things are often the most effective, a lesson which nneds to be relearnt by today's movie makers who throw money and effects into a film thinking it will improve a piece of crap.

Not everyone will like this, its old and silent and for those who can't appreciate that it is surely their loss. I have seen Nosferatu many many times and will see it many times in the future. It never fails to captivate me.

BEST VAMPIRE MOVIE EVER.