If you’re a fan of classic horror, you’re in luck! The iconic silent film Nosferatu (1922) is available to watch for free on platforms like Kanopy, Fawesome, Hoopla, Plex, Darkroom, and JustWatch. And if you’re a subscriber to Prime Video, AMC+, Vudu, or Tubi, you can stream it there too. It’s never been easier to revisit this masterpiece that has influenced nearly every vampire story since its release over a century ago.
Whether you’ve been meaning to check it off your “classic films” list or want to see how it compares to today’s horror movies, now’s the perfect time to dive in.
Why Nosferatu Is Making Headlines Again
So, why is everyone suddenly talking about Nosferatu again? Well, it’s all thanks to Robert Eggers’ 2024 remake of the film. If you’re into movies like The Witch or The Lighthouse, you already know Eggers is the master of atmospheric storytelling, and his take on Nosferatu is no exception.
The remake stars Bill Skarsgård as the creepy Count Orlok, alongside big names like Nicholas Hoult, Lily-Rose Depp, and Willem Dafoe. And critics are loving it! The film has a whopping 91% on Rotten Tomatoes, with an average rating of 8.4/10. People are calling it “equal parts repulsive and seductive”—which, let’s be honest, sounds exactly like what you’d want from a gothic horror movie.
On Metacritic, the remake is sitting pretty with a score of 81/100, and it’s being praised for its eerie visuals and Eggers’ unique twist on the story. So yeah, it’s safe to say this remake has put Nosferatu back in the spotlight in the best way possible.
What’s the Plot of Nosferatu (2024)?
The remake sticks to the eerie vibe of the original but brings a modern edge to the storytelling. Set in the 1830s, the movie follows Thomas Hutter, an estate agent who travels to Transylvania to meet a new client, Count Orlok. Spoiler: Orlok isn’t just your average creepy guy.
While Hutter’s away, his new wife, Ellen, stays behind with their friends Friedrich and Anna Harding. But things start to take a dark turn as Ellen begins experiencing terrifying visions and an overwhelming sense of dread. Let’s just say, by the time Count Orlok’s true nature is revealed, things get very spooky, very fast.
It’s the kind of story that gives you chills—and that’s exactly what makes it so good.
Why You Should Revisit the 1922 Classic
With all the hype around the remake, now is the perfect time to go back and watch where it all began. The original Nosferatu, directed by F.W. Murnau, is a silent-era masterpiece that set the tone for horror movies as we know them.
Max Schreck’s portrayal of Count Orlok is still one of the creepiest depictions of a vampire ever put on screen. Even without sound, the film manages to be unsettling with its haunting visuals, dramatic shadows, and an atmosphere so thick, you can almost feel it.
Plus, this isn’t just any vampire movie—it’s an unauthorized adaptation of Bram Stoker’s Dracula! The film was nearly lost to history after a legal battle over copyright, but thankfully, it survived and has been influencing filmmakers ever since.
Where to Watch the Original Nosferatu (1922)
So, ready to dive into some classic horror? Here’s how you can watch Nosferatu (1922):
- For Free: Kanopy, Fawesome, Hoopla, Plex, Darkroom, JustWatch
- With Subscriptions: Prime Video, AMC+, Vudu, Tubi
It’s an easy watch and an essential one for any horror fan. Whether you’re gearing up for the remake or just curious to see where it all began, Nosferatu is a must-see.
So grab your popcorn, turn the lights off (if you dare), and prepare to be transported to a world of gothic terror. Happy watching!