Review of Nosferatu the Vampyre (1979) by Tico P — 25 Feb 2010

I've seen many adaptations of the classic Dracula story over the years. But I'm embarrassed to say that this Werner Herzog effort had escaped my radar. Shame on me because I had one of the most entrancing experiences I've ever had watching a Vampire film.

No buxom vixens or camp lines on display here. This is how a vampire film should sound and look. The cinematography and the soundtrack generates an atmosphere that is nothing short of breathtaking. That's not to say that this is a film full of vibrant colours and pulsating camera shots.

Death and melancholy is the feel and look of this film. The imagery of Dracula's castle as clouds darken the sky. The surreal sight of a town square filled with hundreds of rats. Are all so captivating, you really can't take your eyes of the screen.

Also what intrigued me was the sympathetic view of a vampire. Klaus Kinski (as Count Dracula) portrays the vampire as a lonely old man, longing for love but also longing for death. In one line in the film Dracula asks Harker "Can you imagine enduring centuries, experiencing each day the same futilities" Isabelle Adjani as Lucy brings a sexual and gothic beauty to her character.

The scenes between her and Kinski are truly astonishing. Though at times the film moves at a snail's pace. This can be forgiven as it is such a magnificently shot and captivating story. I highly recommend watching the subtitled version.

As I feel the acting and feel maybe ruined if watching it dubbed.