Robert Eggers’ 2024 gothic horror film, Nosferatu, a reimagining of F.W. Murnau’s 1922 silent classic, is poised for its home entertainment release on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and DVD on February 18th, 2025. The film, which received an R rating and enjoyed a theatrical release on Christmas Day 2024, follows the chilling tale of Ellen Hutter (Lily-Rose Depp), a young woman tormented by the insidious presence of Count Orlok (Bill Skarsgård), a decrepit vampire who infiltrates her dreams. Caught in the terrifying crossfire of this obsessive pursuit is Ellen’s husband, Thomas Hutter (Nicholas Hoult), a real estate agent whose life is irrevocably entangled with the sinister Count. Eggers’ adaptation, much like its predecessor, explores themes of obsession, horror, and the inescapable grip of the supernatural.
The home release of Nosferatu promises a deeper dive into the film’s shadowy world, offering both the original theatrical cut (132 minutes) and an extended version (136 minutes) across all formats. This allows viewers to experience the film in its intended cinematic form, as well as delve into additional scenes that further enrich the narrative. Moreover, each version includes a treasure trove of bonus content, inviting fans to explore the meticulous craftsmanship that brought this gothic nightmare to life. A key feature included in all formats is an audio commentary by writer-director Robert Eggers, providing invaluable insight into his creative process, artistic choices, and the challenges of reimagining a cinematic landmark. Adding to this, deleted scenes titled "Ellen at the Window," "Harding’s Bedchamber/Dark Corridor," and "Behold, the Third Night" offer glimpses into narrative threads that were ultimately excised from the final cut.
Elevating the viewing experience further, the 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray editions boast an exclusive documentary titled Nosferatu: A Modern Masterpiece. This in-depth feature delves into the various facets of the film’s production, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the creative collaboration that shaped this modern horror masterpiece. Divided into several chapters, the documentary explores Eggers’ long-held ambition to bring this story to the screen, the meticulous process of transforming Bill Skarsgård into the unsettling Count Orlok, and the intricate details of set design, costuming, visual effects, and musical composition that contribute to the film’s haunting atmosphere.
The "Breathing Life Into a Dream" segment showcases the collaborative efforts of the cast and crew, highlighting the dedication and artistry required to realize Eggers’ gothic vision. "Becoming Count Orlok" offers a glimpse into the intricate practical makeup effects that, combined with Skarsgård’s performance, resurrected the iconic vampire with a blend of creepiness and captivating allure. "Capturing the Mood" explores the visual language of the film, demonstrating how lighting, shadows, camera movement, and environmental details contribute to the film’s eerily evocative atmosphere.
Further enriching the documentary, "Recreating 1838" delves into the meticulously crafted sets designed by Craig Lathrop, transporting viewers to a meticulously realized historical world. "Dressing the Part" showcases the work of costume designer Linda Muir, revealing how the characters’ attire not only reflects the period but also subtly enhances their individual stories. Finally, "The End is Just the Beginning" explores the contributions of visual effects supervisor Angela Barson and composer Robin Carolan, showcasing the crucial role of CGI and music in crafting the film’s nightmarish fantasy.
The physical release pricing allows for varying levels of engagement with the film and its bonus materials. The 4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray + Digital Code combination offers the highest quality visual and audio experience, alongside all the bonus features, for $29.99. The Blu-ray + Digital Code version provides a high-definition experience with the same bonus content for $24.99, while the DVD version offers the core film and selected extras for $19.99. These options cater to a wide range of budgets and viewing preferences, ensuring accessibility for all fans of gothic horror and Eggers’ filmmaking.
While Nosferatu continues its theatrical run and is readily available on digital streaming platforms for immediate viewing, the physical release on February 18th provides a tangible and comprehensive way to experience the film’s chilling narrative and immerse oneself in its meticulously crafted world. The inclusion of both theatrical and extended cuts, alongside the wealth of bonus features, especially the insightful documentary, allows for a deeper appreciation of Eggers’ artistic vision and the dedicated efforts of the cast and crew in bringing this gothic masterpiece to life. This release serves as a testament to the enduring power of classic horror narratives and their capacity to be reimagined for contemporary audiences.
