Why Robert Eggers’ Werwulf looks so effortlessly unsettling

Robert Eggers' Werwulf trailer
(Image credit: Focus Features)

As a huge horror buff, it's pretty much guaranteed that any new Robert Eggers movie is going to be on my radar. After the explosive success of 2024's Nosferatu, the iconic horror director is back this December with his latest film, Werwulf, and things already look extremely promising.

Star-studded cast aside, Werwulf is already a feast for the eyes from the trailer alone. With wonderfully eerie aesthetics, gorgeous typography and delicious cinematography, it looks set to be another cult classic horror movie in the making.

WERWULF - Official Trailer [HD] - Only In Theaters Christmas - YouTube WERWULF - Official Trailer [HD] - Only In Theaters Christmas - YouTube
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Starring Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Werwulf is set to follow a cursed farmer who transforms into a monstrous creature in 13th-century England. With its slicing score and spine-chilling sound design, the trailer strikes horror into all the senses, but it's the visuals that truly terrify.

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Instead of opting for the typical black-and-white horror aesthetic, Eggers' washed-out colour grading emulates the look of orthochromatic film – a type of stock that is completely insensitive to red light. Despite being shot on colour 35mm, the post-production result intensifies shadows, bringing forward blue and green tones for a murky, foreboding look. Subverting audience expectation, the cold, uncanny palette creates a subtle discomfort that lurks in the unfamiliar and unknown.

For more movie news, check out why horror movie poster design has a problem or take a look at the original Backrooms films that are even creepier than the blockbuster movie.

Natalie Fear
Staff Writer

Natalie Fear is Creative Bloq's staff writer. With an eye for trending topics and a passion for internet culture, she brings you the latest in art and design news. Natalie also runs Creative Bloq’s 5 Questions series, spotlighting diverse talent across the creative industries. Outside of work, she loves all things literature and music (although she’s partial to a spot of TikTok brain rot). 

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