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Nosferatu is a gothic horror movie and a remake of the 1922 silent film of the same name, based on Bram Stoker’s Dracula.
The movie stars Lily-Rose Depp and Nicholas Hoult and tells the terrifying story of a young woman being pursued by a vampire. The film has a dark, unsettling tone with intense horror elements.
This guide breaks down the movie’s content to help parents decide if it’s suitable for their teens.
Why Is Nosferatu Rated R?
The movie is rated R for bloody violent content, graphic nudity, and some sexual content. It’s best for mature audiences only and not suitable for viewers under 17.
Sex and Nudity: 4/5 (High)
- There are scenes of graphic nudity showing both male and female bodies, including views of full breasts and buttocks.
- A long scene shows a vampire seducing a woman, with moaning and visible nudity.
- Some romantic and seductive moments include a mix of sensuality and horror.
- One scene features symbolic and suggestive imagery in a garden, implying intimacy.
Violence and Gore: 5/5 (High)
- Count Orlok attacks victims, biting their necks, which causes visible wounds and blood spraying.
- Characters are shown with injuries or decaying bodies, adding to the horror tone.
- Rats swarm through scenes, symbolizing disease and death.
- A character kills a bird in a grotesque way.
- Intense body horror includes seizures and spasms that resemble possession.
- The climax is especially violent and unsettling, with prolonged feeding scenes and disturbing imagery.
Frightening and Intense Scenes: 5/5 (Extreme)
- The entire movie has a dark, terrifying atmosphere with an overwhelming sense of dread.
- Count Orlok’s eerie appearance, sudden movements, and shadowy figure are highly unsettling.
- Long stalking and confrontation scenes create maximum tension.
- Disturbing imagery includes Orlok’s distorted shadow and claw-like fingers reaching for victims.
Language: 3/5 (Moderate)
- Some strong words are used, such as “damn,” “hell,” and “bastard.”
- Language is not constant but includes gothic dialogue that may be intense for younger viewers.
Substance Use: 2/5 (Mild)
- Characters drink wine during formal and social gatherings.
- A scene shows ether being used in a medical context, with a dark and eerie undertone.
Positive Themes and Messages
- Survival in Dark Times: The story highlights the fight against an overwhelming and powerful evil.
- Classic Gothic Horror: The film pays tribute to classic horror stories and themes of fear, desire, and mortality.
Is Nosferatu Suitable for Kids?
No, Nosferatu is not suitable for children. It is very scary, with graphic violence, disturbing images, and sexual content. Teens aged 17 and up may watch it if they are okay with intense horror and mature themes.
Official Trailer
Where to watch Nosferatu, and an awards update: The film streams on Peacock (since February 21, 2025), which carries an extended cut with four minutes of additional footage. Since this guide was first published, the film earned four Oscar nominations at the 2025 Academy Awards, including Best Cinematography and Best Production Design, and grossed $182 million — Robert Eggers’ biggest hit to date.
For more vampire horror, see our guide to Salem’s Lot.
FAQ
Q: Is Nosferatu very violent?
A: Yes, the movie contains scenes of neck biting, blood spraying, and graphic injuries, along with disturbing imagery.
Q: Are there any sexual scenes in the film?
A: Yes, the film features nudity and sensual scenes with a mix of horror and romantic undertones.
Q: Does the movie have strong language?
A: Mild strong language is used, such as “damn,” “hell,” and one use of “bastard.”
Q: Is Nosferatu too scary for teens?
A: The movie has a very dark and terrifying atmosphere with intense scenes. It’s best for older teens (17 and up) who can handle gothic horror.