Nosferatu （F. W. Murnau 1922 ）review

Nosferatu, directed by F.W. Murnau in 1922, is a classic horror film that introduced the first vampire character to the silver screen. The vampire in this film is uniquely portrayed and has left a lasting impact on the genre. With its pale complexion, gaunt face, prominent and sharp fangs, and claw-like fingers, Nosferatu established the visual characteristics that have become standard for vampire depictions in subsequent films. These features not only convey the terror and mystery of the vampire but also underscore its inhuman nature. Additionally, the fear of sunlight and the absence of a shadow, iconic traits of vampires, were first depicted in Nosferatu, cementing these as essential elements of the classic vampire image.

The plot of Nosferatu is relatively straightforward. It tells the story of Hutter, an employee at a real estate company, who travels to Count Orlok's castle to finalize a property transaction. After discovering that the Count is a vampire, Hutter barely escapes with his life. The Count, infatuated with Hutter's wife, Ellen, follows him back to his hometown. In a bid to save her town, Ellen sacrifices herself by luring the Count and keeping him until dawn, at which point the sunlight destroys him. Despite the simplicity of the storyline, the film creates a unique and eerie atmosphere through its masterful use of light and shadow and montage techniques. The director’s skillful contrasts of light and darkness, strategic use of shadows, and seamless camera transitions create a sense of visual and psychological tension, enhancing the film's artistic impact.

Max Schreck's portrayal of the vampire Nosferatu is legendary. Through his distinctive body language and facial expressions, Schreck brings to life a vampire that is both terrifying and unforgettable. His performance is filled with an unsettling strangeness—his rigid movements, silent gait, and sickly appearance leave a lasting impression on viewers. Due to the scarcity of information about Schreck, there were even rumors suggesting that he was a real vampire, adding to the mystique and horror of his character.

Nosferatu is notable for its visual effects and cinematographic techniques. Murnau’s adept use of light and shadow contrasts and montage techniques creates a deeply unsettling atmosphere. The film frequently employs the projection of the vampire’s shadow, such as the scene where Nosferatu’s hand shadow slowly ascends the wall to grasp his victim. This technique not only heightens the visual impact but also adds a layer of psychological pressure through suggestion and symbolism. The use of montage is evident, for instance, when Hutter is trapped in the castle, the scenes shift between Hutter's struggles and Ellen's distress at home, enhancing the narrative tension and coherence through visual association.

The film features several iconic scenes that have left a significant mark on horror cinema. Nosferatu's first appearance, where he slowly emerges from the darkness, with his rigid steps, crossed arms, and eerie appearance, is a classic moment in film history. Another memorable scene is the slow movement of Nosferatu’s shadow on the wall, which, through strong contrasts of light and dark, highlights the vampire’s terrifying power and mysterious nature. These scenes not only amplify the film’s visual impact but also, through meticulous light and shadow play and carefully crafted shots, create a spine-chilling horror atmosphere.

F.W. Murnau is a highly influential director in German cinema history, and his understanding and exploration of film art are evident in Nosferatu. Murnau uses montage techniques effectively to achieve narrative fluidity and coherence. For example, when the vampire approaches Hutter's bed, the scene quickly shifts to Ellen waking up in her home. This editing technique connects different spatial events, intensifying the story’s tension and coherence. Additionally, the alternating scenes of Hutter’s horse-drawn carriage and the vampire’s boat journey back to the town create a strong visual contrast and narrative rhythm, showcasing Murnau's innovative use of montage.

Nosferatu is not merely a horror film; it also contains rich humanistic elements and symbolic meanings. The plague in the film symbolizes the wave of death brought by World War I, reflecting the war's devastating impact on human society. Meanwhile, Ellen's self-sacrificial act to save the town represents human kindness and altruism. This narrative of individual sacrifice for the greater good affirms and celebrates the inherent goodness of humanity. Additionally, the scene where a professor guides students in observing carnivorous plants and spiders symbolically alludes to the insidiousness and cruelty of vampires. These humanistic elements and symbolic meanings enrich the film’s depth, adding profound social and humanistic care beyond its horror elements.