Disc Reviews

Nosferatu Blu-ray Review

• 13th May 2014

Werner Herzog’s 1979 masterpiece and tribute to F.W.Murnau’s 1922 silent version finally makes it to Blu-Ray in this fantastic limited edition steelbook from the BFI. Its release on the 19th May, precedes the much anticipated release of the Werner Herzog Collection box sets spanning the years 1967-1987 on 21st July. This beautiful BFI restoration is a real pleasure to watch and a great introduction to the work of the visionary and disturbing director. The atmospheric and moving musical score by Popul Vuh, particularly accompanying the opening credits, is truly remarkable and yet this film is worth watching just for the exceptional performance by Klaus Kinski, bringing soul and sorrow to the heart of the Vampire.

Herzog’s take on the Dracula tale is a beautiful colour echo of the classic novel and F.W.Murnau’s expressionist film, bringing depth to the character and rich in supernatural and religious imagery. It is beautifully shot in Herzog’s distinctive style and the casting is superb. Kinski is remarkable and Isabelle Adjani is a mesmerizing Lucy. Those who remember Bruno Ganz playing Adolf Hitler in ‘Downfall’ will be interested to see his portrayal of Jonathan Harker, showing early on in his career what a versatile and talented actor he will become.

Special features include the remastered version of both English and German versions of the film and an illuminating feature length audio commentary with Werner Herzog. The most interesting for me was the thirteen minute on-set documentary which includes some fascinating behind the scenes footage and some intriguing interviews with Herzog and Kinski. As a fan of the film, I thoroughly enjoyed browsing through the extensive and broad ranging stills gallery and checking out the hypnotic theatrical trailer. As usual with a release from the BFI, the accompanying illustrated booklet is of a very high standard, with beautiful on set photographs included and a fantastic essay by Laurie Johnson.

I find it hard to harbour any criticism of this beautiful, accomplished film and so I must declare myself utterly biased as to this fantastic and timely release by the BFI. Judging by the high standard here,  I cannot wait for the forthcoming Herzog box sets and hope they receive the same level of care and treatment in their production. Disturbing, sublime and exceptional, Herzog’s ‘Nosferatu’ is a true horror classic, rich in imagery and power.

Claire Hyypiä