Review: Nosferatu the Vampyre (1979)

Werner Herzog's 1979 film, 'Nosferatu the Vampyre', is a fascinating reinterpretation of F.W. Murnau's 1922 silent classic 'Nosferatu'. Herzog, known for his distinctive filmmaking style, has taken a story deeply entrenched in horror lore and infused it with his unique vision. This isn't just a retelling; it's a transformation of the vampire mythos that blends horror with a profound sense of melancholy. If you're a fan of the horror genre or a collector of unique interpretations of classic tales, this film is worth your attention.

Plot Summary

Set in the late 19th century, 'Nosferatu the Vampyre' follows Jonathan Harker, a real estate agent tasked with traveling to Transylvania to assist the mysterious Count Dracula with a property purchase in Wismar, Germany. Harker's journey to Dracula's castle takes him through foreboding landscapes and into the clutches of the unsettling Count, played with eerie allure by Klaus Kinski. As Dracula becomes enamored with Harker's wife, Lucy, he sets his sights on Wismar, bringing with him a plague of death and despair. The film explores themes of obsession, the supernatural, and the struggle between good and evil without divulging too much.

Performances

Klaus Kinski's portrayal of Count Dracula is nothing short of mesmerizing. Kinski embodies the character with a perfect blend of menace and vulnerability, creating a vampire that is as pitiable as he is terrifying. His Dracula is not merely a monster, but a tragic figure trapped by his own immortality. Isabelle Adjani, as Lucy Harker, delivers a performance that is both ethereal and strong-willed. Her presence on screen is memorable, and she provides a strong counterbalance to Kinski's Dracula. Bruno Ganz, as Jonathan Harker, offers a solid performance, although his character is somewhat overshadowed by the more dynamic roles of Dracula and Lucy.

Direction and Craft

Werner Herzog's direction is as atmospheric as one would expect from his body of work. The film's pacing is deliberate, allowing the tension to build slowly and effectively. Herzog's use of real locations, such as the eerie landscapes of Transylvania and the plague-ridden streets of Wismar, adds to the film's authenticity and unsettling mood. The cinematography by Jörg Schmidt-Reitwein captures the memorable beauty of these settings, with each frame carefully composed to enhance the film's eerie ambiance.

The score, composed by Popol Vuh, is another standout element of the film. It complements the visuals beautifully, enhancing the otherworldly and melancholic tone that permeates the movie. The music becomes an integral part of the film's narrative, underscoring the emotional and supernatural elements of the story.

Collector's Verdict

For collectors, 'Nosferatu the Vampyre' is a film that stands out due to its unique place in horror cinema. Its combination of atmospheric storytelling, striking performances, and Herzog's distinctive directorial touch makes it a valuable piece for any collection. The best format to own this film is undoubtedly on Blu-ray. The quality of the visuals is significantly enhanced in this format, capturing the rich details and textures that are pivotal to the film's atmosphere. Blu-ray releases often come with additional features that dig into into Herzog's filmmaking process, making it a worthwhile investment for those interested in the craft.

In terms of rarity, 'Nosferatu the Vampyre' is uncommon, especially for those seeking a pristine copy with special features. It's not the rarest film out there, but finding a version that does justice to Herzog's vision can be a bit challenging.

For those who appreciate atmospheric horror and are interested in how classic tales can be reimagined, this film is a valued addition to any collection. The balance of eerie storytelling and visual artistry makes it a must-have, especially in a format that preserves its visual integrity.