Interview: Willem Dafoe Returns to Discuss the Joy of Acting in ‘Nosferatu’

When you talk to Willem Dafoe, you’re talking to an expert in the craft of acting. No matter what he’s in, he’s all in. Moreover, he’s having a good time, clearly finding joy in the process and execution of his talent. With Nosferatu, he’s re-teaming with filmmaker Robert Eggers to execute his specific vision. It’s something he undeniably enjoys. So, given the chance to talk with him about it, I was quick to say yes. I previously spoke to Dafoe here about Poor Things, but today, he’s back to talk Nosferatu with me.

In my review of the movie (here), I had the following to say about the cast, which includes Dafoe:

Watching the cast buy into this vision is really something. Lily-Rose Depp is asked to do some very intense physical acting, while Bill Skarsgård continues to prove he’s one of the best at acting behind large amounts of makeup. He’s unrecognizable as the vampire, which is quite a feat. They both sink into these roles with abandon, which not only is what’s required, but how the story becomes as affecting as it does. The fact that the final scenes are actually moving? That’s all Depp and Skarsgård making you care. Nicholas Hoult showcases terror and love in equal measure, giving depth to a potentially thin role. Willem Dafoe is having fun, getting to go bigger than most. Emma Corrin is solid if unremarkable, while Aaron Taylor-Johnson hams it up a bit. Supporting players here, in addition to Ralph Ineson, include Simon McBurney, among others, but Nosferatu is the Depp and Skarsgård show for sure.

Below, you can hear my conversation with Dafoe. We spoke mainly this time about how working with Eggers is an experience he treasures. When you hear my chat with Lily-Rose Depp tomorrow, she echos that as well, which I reference here. He clearly relished his time making Nosferatu, which is part of why the experience of the film works so well. It’s about to hit theaters, too, so you all can take the movie in for yourselves in a matter of days…

Here now is my interview with Nosferatu co-star Willem Dafoe. Enjoy:

Nosferatu is in theaters on Christmas Day!