5 must watch horror movies to prepare for Nosferatu

Nosferatu, Robert Eggers' latest film, has fans eagerly awaiting its release, promising a fresh take on the classic vampire tale. Eggers quickly became a well-known director after he started making films. This comes from his deep knowledge and focus on detail. His past works show he can create settings that are historically accurate. They often include mysticism and sometimes the supernatural.

Eggers has won over audiences everywhere. When he shared his passion project, a remake of Nosferatu, people responded well. Before you see the latest film, watch these movies first. They’re great to enjoy before Nosferatu arrives at your local theater!

Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror (1922)

Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror is likely the key film on this list. Eggers' remake draws from this important historical classic. It’s a silent German Expressionist vampire film from 1922. It is known as the first vampire movie made for mass audiences. Directed by F.W. Murnau, this film is based on Henrik Galeen's screenplay. Max Schreck plays Count Orlok, a vampire. He preys on his estate agent's wife and spreads a plague in their small town.

Notably, the film is an unauthorized adaptation of Bram Stoker’s 1897 novel Dracula. The main parts of the story still match the original novel, even with the different names and details. This film is a key reference for Eggers' upcoming version, in story and scope.

Bram Stoker’s Dracula (1992)

This film remains a key adaptation and is often considered one of the best vampire movies made. It has earned its place in pop culture and is regularly featured on many "best of" horror film lists. Bram Stoker’s Dracula is a 1992 gothic horror film directed by Francis Ford Coppola. It is based on the 1897 novel by Bram Stoker. Set in 19th-century England and Romania, it follows Count Dracula. He falls in love with his solicitor’s bride-to-be and starts his reign of terror.

The film has unforgettable performances. It includes a young Keanu Reeves and Winona Ryder in supporting roles.

The VVitch (2015)

Next on the list is Eggers’ directorial debut, The VVitch. This folk horror film features Anya Taylor-Joy in her big break. It's a must-see before you check out his re-imagined Nosferatu. Set in 1630s New England, it follows a Puritan family. They face evil forces hiding Eggers pays close attention to historical details. He builds tension well, often without revealing where the danger comes from. This skill is a key feature of the film.

The film was a hit with critics and at the box office. It made $40 million on a $4 million budget. Also, it often appears in top horror lists from the 2000s. It also shows Eggers’ talent for building atmosphere and dread. This skill will likely feature in his Nosferatu.

It (2017)

Bill Skarsgård plays Count Orlok in Eggers' new Nosferatu. He became famous for playing Pennywise in It (2017). It is a supernatural horror film directed by Andy Muschietti, based on Stephen King’s 1986 novel. In the made-up town of Derry, Maine, a group of kids faces their fears. They fight back against a shape-shifting monster that scares them.

Skarsgård shines as Pennywise. His skill to become a creepy character will surely show in his role as Orlok. The film mixes suspense and supernatural horror well. This makes it a great contrast for getting ready for Eggers' take on the Nosferatu mythos.

The Last Voyage of the Demeter (2023)

The last film on the list is The Last Voyage of the Demeter (2023). In some markets, it's also called Dracula: Voyage of the Demeter. Directed by André Øvredal, this horror film gives a new take on the Dracula tale. It tells the story of the doomed voyage of the Demeter. This ship carried Dracula from Transylvania to England.

The film offers a fresh view of the story of Dracula. It focuses on the crew's terrifying journey at sea, a part of the tale that films seldom explore. It avoids romanticizing the vampire, instead emphasizing its brutality. This aspect, plus the film's eerie atmosphere, makes it a key reference. Eggers’ Nosferatu is likely to focus on the darker, non-romantic side of vampirism.

What's Next for Eggers

Since Nosferatu hit theaters, Eggers has been open about his upcoming projects. He recently announced that his next film, Werwulf, is set for a December 2026 release. The film will be based on werewolf mythology and is set in 13th-century England. More details about the plot and cast are still unclear. However, Eggers is working with Focus Features again for its release. He will also be working with Sjón, with whom he co-wrote The Northman.