Chasing Dracula- From Nosferatu to Dracula’s Castle
As a self-proclaimed vampire enthusiast, I’ve always been drawn to the dark and mysterious world of these blood-sucking creatures.
From Anita Blake novels to Blade movies and vampire cafes, my love for the undead knows no bounds. So, when I planned my annual birthday trip to Transylvania, I knew it would be the ultimate vampire pilgrimage.
A haunting prelude: the 1922 nosferatu
My vampire-filled year began in October with a truly unforgettable experience: a screening of the 1922 silent film Nosferatu, accompanied by a live organ performance by the renowned Dorothy Papadakos.
I stumbled upon an advertisement for the screening of the film at the Kauffman Center in Kansas City for Halloween. I shared the exciting news with my mom, who, being a fellow horror enthusiast, was immediately on board.
With my trip to Transylvania looming just a few weeks later, I knew this would be the perfect way to kick off my vampire-themed birthday celebration.
Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror is a 1922 German Expressionist horror film directed by F.W. Murnau. It’s a silent film adaptation of Bram Stoker’s Dracula, though it was produced without Stoker’s estate’s permission.
The film follows a real estate agent, Hutter, who travels to Transylvania to meet a mysterious count named Orlok. As Hutter delves deeper into the count’s eerie castle, he discovers Orlok’s true nature as a vampire. Orlok, with his elongated fingers, sharp teeth, and gaunt appearance, is a truly iconic and terrifying figure.
The film is renowned for its atmospheric cinematography, striking imagery, and the chilling performance of Max Schreck as Count Orlok. It’s a classic of the horror genre and has influenced countless films that followed.
As I sat in the darkened theater of Kauffman, I was transported to a world of shadows and dread. Max Schreck’s iconic portrayal of Count Orlok, a grotesque and terrifying figure, still sends chills down my spine.
I was immersed in the film, feeling as though I were a passenger on the Empusa, terrified as my fellow shipmates vanished one by one. It was as if I had become Ellen Hutter herself, consumed by fear and longing for the monstrous Count Orlok.
The haunting score, brought to life by Papadakos’s masterful playing, heightened the film’s eerie atmosphere.
A Journey to the heart of darkness: transylvania
Fast forward to November, and it’s time for my birthday trip! I found myself wholly immersed in the heart of Transylvania.
From the imposing Bran Castle, the real-life fortress that inspired Bram Stoker’s iconic novel, to the hauntingly beautiful city of Brasov, Transylvania offered a truly otherworldly experience. Brasov, with its Gothic architecture and cobblestone streets, quickly became one of my favorite cities.
I not only visited Bran Castle but also dined at Dracula‘s, a fittingly named restaurant in the heart of Transylvania. Laughs in a sinister tone. It was the perfect way to complete my vampire-themed adventure.
I also spent considerable time exploring the vibrant capital of Bucharest, a city that defies expectations. It’s a dynamic metropolis with a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving cultural scene.
For more details on my trip, including recommendations, check out my review of it coming this week!
a modern twist: the 2024 nosferatu
As we enter December, the vampire fever continues. The highly anticipated 2024 Nosferatu film, starring my husband Bill Skarsgård, Lily-Rose Depp, Nicholas Hoult, and the legendary Willem Dafoe, is set to hit theaters.
Nosferatu (2024) is a dark and atmospheric reimagining of the classic vampire tale. Directed by Robert Eggers, the film follows a young woman, Ellen Hutter, who becomes obsessed with the ancient vampire Count Orlok. As Orlok’s shadow looms over her life, a horrifying chain of events unfolds, marked by disease, death, and a descent into madness. The film is praised for its stunning visuals, eerie atmosphere, and the chilling performance of Bill Skarsgård as the monstrous Count Orlok.
I can’t wait to see how this new adaptation will reimagine the classic tale of the vampire. Bill Skarsgård is one of my favorite actors, and this year has been incredible watching his films on the big screen.
I’ll always maintain that he was fantastic as Eric Draven in The Crow and absolutely nailed his role in Boy Kills World. I’m a lifelong fan and will always support his work.
It seems that Count Orlok, or perhaps Dracula, has cast a spell on me, leading me on a winter journey through the world of vampires.
From exploring his castle in the mountains of Transylvania, to experiencing his story in my little hometown of Kansas City; this blood-sucking obsession shows no signs of waning.
Are you as obsessed with vampires as me? Let’s swap favorite movies in the comments!
