Film Previews

“Nosferatu”

R | 133 minutes
Director: Robert Eggers
Writers: Robert Eggers, Henrik Galeen, Bram Stoker
Stars: Lily-Rose Depp, Nicholas Hoult, Bill Skarsgård

Robert Eggers’ 2024 “Nosferatu” reimagines the classic vampire tale with his signature historical and atmospheric approach. Starring Bill Skarsgård as Count Orlok and Lily-Rose Depp as Ellen, the film blends Gothic horror with Eggers’ meticulous attention to period detail. Set against the eerie backdrop of Eastern Europe, it explores themes of obsession and dread as Orlok fixates on Ellen, leading to an escalating conflict of supernatural terror. Skarsgård’s performance is lauded as grotesquely mesmerizing, embodying an undead malevolence, while Depp delivers a physical and emotionally charged portrayal of Ellen. The film’s visuals, captured with a Romantic-era aesthetic, and an unconventional melancholic score by Robin Carolan amplify its haunting atmosphere. Eggers’ reinterpretation provides a deeply immersive, chilling experience that honors its roots while offering fresh dimensions to the story of Nosferatu, promising a unique take on a legendary tale.

“A Complete Unknown”

R | 141 minutes
Director: James Mangold
Writers: James Mangold, Jay Cocks, Elijah Wald
Stars: Timothée Chalamet, Monica Barbaro, Scoot McNairy

James Mangold’s “A Complete Unknown” is a biographical drama exploring a pivotal moment in Bob Dylan’s career — the 1965 Newport Folk Festival, where he famously went electric, igniting both acclaim and controversy. Starring Timothée Chalamet as Dylan, the film delves into his early rise as a cultural and musical icon, blending his personal relationships and artistic evolution against the backdrop of a changing America. Rather than a straightforward biopic, Mangold presents the narrative as an ensemble drama, spotlighting Dylan’s interactions with key figures like Joan Baez (Monica Barbaro) and Suze Rotolo (Elle Fanning). The performances, including live-recorded songs by Chalamet, aim to capture the raw energy of Dylan’s era while staying authentic to his music and persona. 

“The Fire Inside”

PG-13 | 109 minutes
Director: Rachel Morrison
Writer: Barry Jenkins
Stars: Ryan Destiny, Brian Tyree Henry, Jazmin Headley

“The Fire Inside” is an inspiring biographical drama directed by Rachel Morrison and written by Barry Jenkins. The film chronicles the extraordinary journey of Claressa “T-Rex” Shields (Ryan Destiny), a determined high school junior from Flint, Michigan. Guided by her tough-love coach Jason Crutchfield (Brian Tyree Henry), Claressa defies societal and personal challenges to become the first American woman to win an Olympic gold medal in boxing. While celebrating her monumental achievements, the film delves deeper into her struggles, revealing that the path to realizing one’s dreams is often fraught with unexpected battles and emotional reckonings. Powerful performances combine with empathetic storytelling to elevate this sports biopic.