In this episode of Public Domain Theater, we discuss Nosferatu, the influential 1922 vampire movie that has been remade not once, but twice, most recently by Robert Eggers. Topics this episode include German Expressionism, the evolution of vampire lore, the evolution of copyright laws in the US, and the fact that apparently Matt has completely misinterpreted the ending of this movie for decades.
You can also watch this episode on YouTube, if you prefer.
Student Expressionism
One thing we neglected to mention in the episode is that Casey was such a fan of German Expressionist Cinema back in film school, he actually directed one as an assignment for class. It was called, “Der Spooka”—a play on the art collective Die Brücke.
Matt used to work at the sound stages at USC, and fondly remembers the incredible sets, with their cock-eyed shadows and painted-on shadows. It’s amazing what you can do with foam core and black paint.
Years later, Matt directed a series of spec commercials for Monster Energy Drink. Remember the above film, he asked Casey to do the production design. The set in the third commercial particularly fits the Expressionist style.
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