Because Nosferatu (1922) was an unsanctioned adaptation of Bram Stoker’s ‘Dracula’, all copies were ordered to be destroyed.  Yet, just like its undead titular character, it rose from the dead and has endured for over a century as one of the most celebrated silent films of all times. It has been referenced, analyzed, and reworked many times over.  A beautiful example of German Expressionism, its dramatic and frightening imagery is further underscored by the real occultic references worked into the film by the director and producer, the latter a long-time practitioner of the occult. It is this mystique that provides the backdrop against which Shadow of the Vampire (2000) builds its creative reimagined production of the 1922 classic.

Committed to producing the most realistic vampire film possible, director F.W. Murnau (played by John Malkovich) casts recluse Max Schrek (played by Willem Defoe) as Count Orlaf the vampire. A seemingly early student of the method acting technique, the hitherto unknown Max Schrek never appears on set out of costume or character, and only films his scenes at night.  Shortly after production begins, a curse descends upon the ill-fated set as crew members begin to fall sick and disappear. As production of Nosferatu draws nearer to wrapping its legendary final horrific sequence, Shadow of the Vampire contemplates the extremes to which an artist will push ethical boundaries to see to fruition the pinnacle of his vision.

The vitals:
Wednesday, 10/9
7:00 ~ Doors
7:30 ~ short film “Pearl's Vampire” with filmmaker Randy Culp
Following ~ SHADOW OF THE VAMPIRE

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