Review of Nosferatu the Vampyre (1979) by Bryony B — 01 Aug 2008

A truly magnificent remake of the 1922 Nosferatu film. However influential and innovative the original film maybe, you have to understand the fact that some things just weren't possible back then so I'd say this is actually better than the original. It's definitely one of the best remakes I've ever seen and quite possibly the best vampire film of all time as well.

Klaus Kinski's performance as Count Dracula is one of the film's strongest points and it's nothing short of phenomenal. As memorable as they come. Isabelle Adjani was perfect for the role as well. She's stunning and it's impossible to keep your eyes off her. As for Bruno Ganz, he did a fine job. Renfield's character on the other hand I think was played better in the original.

Above all, the one thing that got me instantly hooked is perhaps the haunting and evocative atmosphere which owes much to the cinematography and the bleak ambient music which was played throughout the film. It works like a charm. This film also has one of the best opening sequences I've ever seen and it really set the mood for what is to come and make no mistake, it's all about the mood here. You need to be in a right mood to appreciate this.

I'll have to say the only thing that even slightly disappointed me was perhaps the ending, but it's no deal breaker. Lastly I've gotta give credits to the writers. It was quite poetic writing without being over done and I really liked it. I think the film is well ahead of it's time and unappreciated much.