Nosferatu Box Office Hit! $50M+ in North America

The world of gothic horror has a new gem shining brightly at the box office. Nosferatu, featuring Lily-Rose Depp and Bill Skarsgård, has achieved a significant domestic milestone, surpassing the $50 million mark.

Directed by the acclaimed Robert Eggers, this horror epic has garnered critical acclaim and captivated audiences, creating a buzz reminiscent of the golden era of horror cinema.

Dive into the numbers, accolades, and magic behind this modern classic.

A Gothic Horror Masterpiece by Robert Eggers

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Robert Eggers, known for his unique storytelling in films like The Witch and The Lighthouse, has once again struck gold with Nosferatu. Described as “equal parts repulsive and seductive,” the film has resonated with critics and audiences alike.

With an impressive 85% score from critics, Eggers’ directorial prowess has been hailed as a driving force behind the film’s success. Critics have praised his ability to balance grotesque horror with an almost hypnotic allure, making Nosferatu a standout in the genre.

The audience, while slightly more reserved, gave it a respectable 75% on the Popcornmeter, reflecting strong word-of-mouth praise. Eggers’ signature style—dark visuals, compelling narratives, and deeply atmospheric settings—has firmly established him as a master of modern horror.

From its release on December 25, Nosferatu quickly gained momentum, earning $21.65 million in its opening weekend. However, the real story lies in its second week, where it continued to outperform expectations.

A Stellar Second Wednesday

On its second Wednesday, Nosferatu raked in $5 million across 2,911 theaters, marking a 56.7% dip from its debut—a drop that is considered strong for an R-rated horror film. This performance places it among the All-Time Top 10 highest-grossing New Year’s Day collections for R-rated movies.

Beating the Competition

The film has outpaced several notable releases in the same genre:

• Alien: Romulus: $1.4 million
• Longlegs: $1.7 million

Furthermore, Nosferatu broke Focus Features’ record for the biggest second Wednesday, surpassing Downton Abbey, which had previously grossed $1.7 million.

Focus Features’ Rising Star

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The success of Nosferatu cements its position as one of the top-performing films in Focus Features’ history. The movie has overtaken Phantom Thread—Daniel Day-Lewis’ 2017 film—on the studio’s all-time list.

While Phantom Thread is capped at $47.5 million, Nosferatu has already reached $53.2 million domestically, with no signs of slowing down. This achievement underscores Focus Features’ ability to produce and distribute films that strike a chord with niche audiences while achieving mainstream success.

International Appeal: Modest but Promising Global Numbers

While the domestic box office is where Nosferatu has truly shined, its international performance has been more modest. The film has earned $3.13 million overseas, bringing its global cumulative earnings to $56.2 million.

Although the international numbers may not seem as staggering, they reflect a growing interest in Eggers’ signature style, which often appeals to niche audiences worldwide.

Given the film’s strong critical reception and the universal appeal of gothic horror, it’s likely that Nosferatu will continue to grow its global footprint in the coming weeks.

Why Audiences Are Flocking to Nosferatu

The success of Nosferatu goes beyond its box office numbers. Here are some key factors driving its appeal:

1. A Star-Studded Cast

Lily-Rose Depp and Bill Skarsgård deliver powerful performances that have captivated audiences. Depp’s portrayal of her character has been described as hauntingly beautiful, while Skarsgård’s chilling take on the titular vampire adds a layer of menace that stays with viewers long after the credits roll.

2. A Timeless Story

Nosferatu is a reimagining of the 1922 silent horror classic, which itself was an unauthorized adaptation of Bram Stoker’s Dracula. This modern take pays homage to the original while offering a fresh perspective that appeals to both longtime fans and new audiences.

3. Unmatched Visuals

Eggers’ meticulous attention to detail is evident in every frame of the film. From the eerie landscapes to the elaborate set designs, Nosferatu creates an immersive experience that transports viewers to its dark and mysterious world.

4. Positive Word-of-Mouth

With strong reviews from critics and audiences alike, Nosferatu has benefited from positive word-of-mouth. Social media buzz and glowing recommendations have played a significant role in sustaining its box office momentum.

Comparing Nosferatu to Other Horror Hits

To understand the magnitude of Nosferatu’s success, let’s compare it to some recent horror films:

Critics and Audiences Speak: The Dual Appeal of Nosferatu

Critical acclaim and audience approval have been instrumental in Nosferatu’s journey. Critics have celebrated the film for its bold direction, atmospheric cinematography, and compelling performances.

Many reviews have labeled it as a “game-changer” for gothic horror, pushing the boundaries of what the genre can achieve. Audiences, on the other hand, have praised its ability to blend traditional horror elements with a modern sensibility.

While some viewers found its pacing slow, most agreed that the film’s haunting visuals and intense storytelling more than made up for it.

The Road Ahead: Can Nosferatu Sustain Its Momentum?

With its $53.2 million domestic haul, Nosferatu has already surpassed expectations. However, the question remains: can it continue to draw audiences in the coming weeks?

The film faces stiff competition from upcoming releases, but its strong word-of-mouth and critical acclaim give it an edge. Moreover, as the awards season approaches, Nosferatu could see a boost if it garnered nominations for categories like Best Cinematography or Best Director.

Conclusion

• Nosferatu is more than just a box office success; it’s a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring appeal of gothic horror.
• With its mesmerizing visuals, stellar performances, and strong box office performance, the film has solidified its place as one of the standout releases of 2024.
• As it continues to captivate audiences worldwide, Nosferatu serves as a reminder that even in a world dominated by CGI-heavy blockbusters, there is still room for films that dare to be different.
• Whether you’re a fan of horror, a cinephile, or someone looking for a thrilling cinematic experience, Nosferatu is a must-watch. Don’t miss your chance to witness this modern masterpiece on the big screen!

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