Hi all! 

With the recent release of Nosferatu, I decided to rank all of Robert Eggers’ films. His particular directing style is moody, atmospheric and slow-paced. The movies listed below display a strong affinity for period-settings, historical accuracy and the darker side of humanity. For that reason, Eggers tends to lean more into the horror genre, but he does not limit himself to one type of classification. In fact, he has a certain distaste for jump-scares; instead leaning more on building tension to evoke fear. He definitely isn’t for everyone, but I am seated for whatever he releases next. Without further ado, from favourite to least favourite, let’s get into it! 

Warning – Controversial Opinions Ahead!

1.) The Lighthouse 

My absolute favourite Robert Eggers film is The Lighthouse. This may be a huge call, but I believe it to be a cinematic masterpiece. 

‘Two lighthouse keepers try to maintain their sanity while living on a remote and mysterious New England island in the 1890s.’

This story is one long descent into madness. Nobody knows what is real and what is lunacy – and that is the point. My personal experience watching it was so entertaining. I was laughing one minute and shocked into silence the next. We as viewers go on a wild journey with Thomas Wake (played by Willem Dafoe) and Thomas Howard (played by Robert Pattinson). Nobody can deny that their acting was Academy Award worthy. To prove my point, Willem Dafoe’s lengthy, jaw-dropping monologue was delivered entirely without blinking. Furthermore, the way Robert Eggers was able to weave a simple setting with such a complex and philosophical allegory, was pure genius. The ending is forever burned into my brain. Some say The Lighthouse is a surreal re-imagining of Samuel Beckett’s ‘Waiting for Godot’ and I couldn’t agree more. I don’t foresee any future directorial feature topping this one, but I’m open to being wrong. 

2.) Nosferatu 

In second place we have Nosferatu. Of his four films, this one is his most straightforward. It is very easy to follow and comprehend.  

‘In the 1830’s, estate agent, Thomas Hutter, travels to Transylvania for a fateful meeting with Count Orlok, a prospective client. In his absence, Hutter’s new bride, Ellen, is left under the care of their friends. Plagued by horrific visions and an increasing sense of dread, Ellen soon encounters an evil force that’s far beyond her control.’

This may just be the most beautiful horror movie I have ever seen.The cinematography and camera work took my breath away. My favourite part in particular was the carriage ride up to the castle. That moment alone will stay with me. Not to mention, the seductively scary opening scene. The colour grading enriched the Gothic nature of the movie, as well as the costuming and set design. Whilst I want to commend Bill Skarsgard’s unrecognisable and incredible characterisation of Count Orlok, it was Lily Rose Depp’s performance of Ellen that stole the show. She managed to perfectly capture the hysteria and romance of a woman haunted by evil. I was so mesmerised from start to finish and that final shot, had me gasping. Its strongest asset was its aesthetics. Truly a highlight of Eggers’ career.  

3.) The Northman 

In third place, we have The Northman, which is less horror and more action/adventure. 

‘Adventure awaits Prince Amleth, whose father was killed and mother was abducted by his ruthless uncle. His journey of revenge takes him through startling twists, which unravel a dark truth about his family.’

If the plot sounds like the Viking version of The Lion King, well…it is! In fact, Amleth is an anagram of Hamlet; the source material being heavily inspired by the infamous Disney film. To be perfectly honest, this isn’t the type of movie I would normally gravitate toward, but I was thoroughly impressed by the acting and captivating story. Like all of Eggers’s features, it takes the viewer on a journey through breathtaking landscapes filled with lore and cultural customs. It’s ranked lower because the pacing was a little too slow for me. I do think it could’ve benefited with some editing. Having said that, Alexander Skarsgard really held his own in the role of Prince Amleth. He was made to play this type of character. The Northman is quite different to Robert’s other works, but I still recommend it. 

4.) The Witch

Last but not least, we have The Witch. I know this film is beloved by many but it just wasn’t for me. 

‘In the New England of the 17th century, a banished Puritan family set up a farm by the edge of a huge remote forest. Soon, sinister forces start haunting them.’

I really wanted to love this film. Looking at the plot, movie poster and cast alone, I was sure it would be an instant favourite. Unfortunately, I was unbelievably bored the entire runtime. For a horror movie about witches, barely anything happened. I think Anya Taylor-Joy is a phenomenal actress but she had so little to work with. It’s such a shame because it had a lot of potential. If you’re a fan of Arthur Miller’s ‘The Crucible’ or even ‘Fear Street: Part Three: 1666’ this feature should appeal to you. It’s more rooted in historical accuracy, over grandiose supernatural elements. I would’ve been fine with all that had the story been somewhat substantial. In the end, my ranking just comes down to personal taste and The Witch paled in comparison to the rest of Eggers’ works. 

Thank you so much for reading! How would you rank Robert’s films? 

Peace & Love xoxo