Nosferatu

My favorite moment in Nosferatu is one of the last scenes of the film. The scene is when Orlock stares from his window at the sleeping Ellen. Prior to this scene in the film Ellen is seen reading the book of vampires, even though Hutter forbid her to do so. By reading the book Ellen learns how to kill a vampire, whick foreshadows the final interaction betwee Orlock and Ellen. Only a woman who is pure in her heart can make Orlock forget the rooster's first crowing. The scene first starts off with Orlock looking out of his window; and the music in the backround plays very rigidly. The scene then switches over to Ellen who is sleeping peacefully on her bed. She senses something is wrong and wakes up abruptly. The music and the background suddenly speeds up with her rapid actions; indicating to the audience that something is about to happen between Orlock and Ellen. Orlock is using his powers to seduce Ellen, so that he can drink her blood. Ellen gets up from her bed to open the window, but almsot faints as Orlock raises his grotesque hand. The director did a very good job of shifting the camera between Nosferatu and Ellen; showing the powers of Orlock. I felt that this was the most terrifying part of the film. Knowing that Orlock could control someone from a different house through his psychological powers sent a chill down my spine. Ellen opens her window to invite Orlock in but faints. After this scene Orlock travels to the room and drinks her blood. He loses track of time and goes up in smoke after hearing the crow of the rooster.
I feel that the central theme in the film is the two halves of a complete individual. Orlock represents the bestial nature found in humans and Hutter represents innocence. Throughout the movie Orlock is protrayed as a beast-like creature with no compassion; who only goes about to please him self. Hutter is seen as a caring man who always takes care of his wife. I feel that the scene between Orlock and Hellen really highlights this idea. After seeing his wife faint Hutter leaves to get help. After Orlock is able to isolate Ellen he attacks her like an animal. The scene reminded me of a lion hunting down its prey. However, in the end of the film Orlock is destroyed by his agressive actions.