Μύ Willem Dafoe takes method acting a little too far as he drains his victims for real during the shooting of "Nosferatu", in E Elias Merhige's clever "Shadow of the Vampire". It's certainly worth seeing on DVD, especially as it comes packed with background information on both films.
Picture quality is excellent. Rich period colours fill the screen in a transfer that at no time lets down the superior design of the movie.
The 5.1 sound mix is equally pleasing, especially in terms of subtle, creak-filled effects that wrap around the speakers for maximum chills.
Director's commentaries vary as widely as the films they describe. On this DVD, E Elias Merhige opts for a theoretical dissection of what he's created. It's an interesting approach that should certainly limit the abilities of others to offer their own interpretations on Merhige's intentions.
If it seems a little heavy, then there's an appropriately syrupy five minute 'making of' featurette. In truth, you're better off with the eight minutes of behind-the-scenes footage or exploring the detailed production notes on both Merhige's film and FW Murnau's "Nosferatu". All wrapped up with classy animated menus, this is an excellent DVD that's high on engrossing detail.
Read reviews of "Shadow of the Vampire" and "Nosferatu".
Chapters: 29
Region: 2
Ratio: 1.85:1 (Anamorphic)
Sound: Dolby Digital 5.1
Extra Features:
- scene selection, production notes
- audio commentary with director E Elias Merhige
- 'making of' featurette, behind-the-scenes footage, special fx/make-up featurette
- notes on "Nosferatu", FW Murnau filmography, "Nosferatu" DVD trailer
- cast and crew biographies and filmographies, theatrical trailer, animated menus.
