
Nosferatu Director Robert Eggers Knows the Value of Gateway Horror
When it comes to creating a new adaptation of the classic vampire tale, Nosferatu director Robert Eggers is well aware of the importance of gateway horror. In an exclusive interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Eggers opened up about the potential impact of his film on younger audiences.
“I’m actually really grateful that SpongeBob SquarePants parodies have introduced many people to the idea of vampires and the concept of Nosferatu,” Eggers said, “and I think it’s fantastic that a cartoon has been able to do so. It’s a great way for kids to get their first taste of horror.”
Eggers’ words are particularly telling, given his own nostalgic attachment to the gateway horrors of his childhood. “There was a show called Muppet Babies when I was a kid that would play little clips of like Lon Chaney’s Phantom of the Opera and classic Universal monster movies,” he revealed. “It was my introduction to the horror genre, and it’s amazing to think about how those brief moments had such an impact on me.”
The director’s appreciation for gateway horrors is rooted in his understanding of their ability to create a sense of excitement and curiosity in young viewers. “I think that it’s fantastic when you can tap into someone’s imagination at a very early age,” he emphasized. “It sets the stage for them to develop a taste for horror, which is something I’m extremely passionate about.”
In light of his own experiences, Eggers’ enthusiasm for gateway horrors is not surprising. His passion project, Nosferatu, has generated significant buzz in the lead-up to its release, with many critics and fans praising its bold and unapologetic take on the vampire genre.
Ultimately, Eggers’ words serve as a testament to the power of gateway horrors in shaping our understanding of the horror genre. As he so eloquently put it: “I think that it’s fantastic when you can tap into someone’s imagination at a very early age… It sets the stage for them to develop a taste for horror.”
Source: gizmodo.com