D: F. W. Murnau (1922), w/Max Schreck, Gustav von Wangenheim, Greta Schroeder. Laserdisc.

Nosferatu is one of the first feature films to deal with the subject of vampirism. This silent classic is based on Bram Stoker's novel Dracula, and although the author originally went unmentioned in the titles, he is given proper credit in this version. The familiar plot has Count Orlock seeking the aid of a young real estate salesman to relocate from his castle in Transylvania to a large city. The film's finale is a departure from other versions of Dracula in that the vampire's destruction is brought about by a woman who sacrifices herself to keep Orlock occupied until the sun rises. The strengths of Nosferatu are Murnau's stylish direction and Max Schreck's performance as the vampire. Creepy and rodent-like in appearance, with elongated fingernails and a balding skull, Schreck truly looks like a creature who could bring death and pestilence to an entire city.

The laserdisc of Nosferatu was created from a newly mastered 35mm print and is presented with the original tinting and at the correct projection speed. Side two is in CAV format (allowing the movie to be viewed a frame at a time) and includes a brief supplement with photographs and artwork.

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