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Why the Original 'Nosferatu' Was So Controversial

MovieWeb
Story by Jerome Reuter
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The unauthorized adaptation of Bram Stoker's 'Dracula' that scandalised early 20th century audiences with its dark, atmospheric take on the iconic vampire tale.
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  • Director F.W. Murnau's 1922 silent film 'Nosferatu' was a blatant rip-off of Bram Stoker's 'Dracula', with the names and some details changed to avoid copyright issues - but Stoker's widow was not amused and sued to have all copies destroyed.
  • The film's stark, unsettling visuals and Max Schreck's chilling portrayal of the vampire Count Orlok made 'Nosferatu' a landmark of German Expressionist cinema, influencing generations of horror movies to come.
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F.W. Murnau, Max Schreck, Bram Stoker, 'Nosferatu'
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