All Of It with Alison Stewart: Creating the World of 'Nosferatu' (The Big Picture)
Host: Alison Stewart
Guest: Craig Lathrop, Production Designer
Release Date: February 5, 2025

Introduction

In the February 5, 2025 episode of All Of It, hosted by Alison Stewart, the spotlight is on the intricate world-building behind Robert Eggers' latest film, "Nosferatu." As part of the "The Big Picture" series, this episode delves deep into the meticulous craftsmanship that brings 19th-century German and Transylvanian settings to life on screen. The guest, Craig Lathrop, an Oscar-nominated production designer, shares his journey and insights into creating the hauntingly authentic environment of "Nosferatu."

Collaboration with Robert Eggers

Craig Lathrop's collaboration with Robert Eggers dates back to Eggers' first feature film, "The Witch." Their partnership is rooted in a shared commitment to historical authenticity and a cohesive artistic vision.

[01:38] Craig Lathrop: "I think we're on the same wavelength in terms of his approach to doing these films is to be as authentic as you possibly can be."

Lathrop recounts their initial meeting, characterized by a mutual exchange of visual inspirations that set the foundation for their collaborative synergy.

[02:17] Craig Lathrop: "We're on the same wavelength... doing these films is to be as authentic as you possibly can be."

Research and Design Process

The foundation of "Nosferatu's" visual storytelling lies in extensive research. Lathrop emphasizes the importance of grounding the film in historical accuracy while weaving elements of folklore and horror.

Artistic Influences

Lathrop draws inspiration from the Romanticism art movement, particularly the works of Caspar David Friedrich. This influence is evident in the film's palette and atmospheric design.

[05:02] Craig Lathrop: "The Romanticism, art movement... trying to push it a little bit more towards the romantic."

Architectural Authenticity

Set in a fictional Hanseatic League town, the architectural design reflects the brick Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles prevalent in 1838 Baltic German trade towns. Lathrop meticulously recreates the authentic brick structures, avoiding modern touristy elements to maintain the film's gritty and decayed aesthetic.

[06:10] Craig Lathrop: "There was a lot of brick Gothic, a lot of brick Renaissance and even Baroque... trying to make sure that we got that look."

Bringing Orlok’s Castle to Life

One of the standout elements of "Nosferatu" is Count Orlok's Castle, a character in itself. Lathrop draws inspiration from Corvin Castle in Romania, incorporating its distinctive columns and decaying grandeur.

[10:09] Craig Lathrop: "There was one castle in particular, Corvin Castle in Romania, that I really loved... But I needed decay. I needed, you know, that's what I was looking for."

The castle's maze-like corridors create a disorienting atmosphere, enhancing the character's ominous presence.

Depiction of Transylvanian Villages

The film's portrayal of a Transylvanian village grapples with the locals' fear and suspicion. Through on-site research in Romania and consultations with linguists, Lathrop ensures that the village's architecture and social dynamics are portrayed with authenticity.

[12:26] Craig Lathrop: "We were able to look at these... the architecture and these spaces and the carving and all of that."

Von Franz’s Workspace

Von Franz, portrayed by Willem Dafoe, embodies the quintessential mad scientist. His workspace, a blend of living area and office, reflects his obsession with the occult and alchemy. Lathrop details the layered design process that resulted in a cluttered, eerie environment.

[14:23] Craig Lathrop: "We just kept on adding more and more... we needed it to feel as mad as he is."

Innovative Set Elements

The Use of Real and Simulated Rats

A striking feature of "Nosferatu" is the depiction of thousands of rats, integral to the film's horror elements. Lathrop discusses the challenges and creative solutions in portraying such a vast population of rats.

[07:59] Craig Lathrop: "We used real rats on the set, thousands of them... the animal handlers were amazing."

To enhance the realism, Lathrop developed rat mats—crafted from realistic toy rats—for background scenes, supplemented by visual effects for deeper layers.

[08:24] Craig Lathrop: "We had 5,000 rats about right next to the camera... in that chapel, there would have been 100,000 rats."

Color Palette Choices

The film's distinct color scheme—harsh reds and icy blues—was a deliberate artistic choice to evoke specific emotional responses and enhance the film's aesthetic.

[09:24] Craig Lathrop: "The palette was very much in our control... we were trying to limit the palette and make sure that it fit with everything that we're doing."

Overcoming Challenges

Building expansive sets, such as five blocks of streets, was one of the most significant undertakings for Lathrop. Balancing historical accuracy with the film's narrative demands required meticulous attention to detail and innovative design solutions.

[15:51] Craig Lathrop: "We were able to create the world that Rob had envisioned and that it's cohesive and that helps the story."

Notable Achievements

Lathrop expresses pride in the cohesive and immersive world crafted for "Nosferatu," highlighting the monastery's intricate frescoes as a standout achievement.

[16:42] Craig Lathrop: "The monastery... every inch of the place is a fresco... we did it with a combination of... printed onto... and then painted over and added gold leaf."

Conclusion

Craig Lathrop's contribution to "Nosferatu" exemplifies the profound impact of thoughtful production design in storytelling. His dedication to authenticity, combined with creative ingenuity, has not only earned him an Oscar nomination but also elevated Robert Eggers' vision into a palpable reality. This episode of All Of It offers listeners an in-depth look at the artistry behind the scenes, celebrating the collaborative spirit that defines New York City's vibrant cultural landscape.

Notable Quotes:

• Collaboration Synergy

  [01:38] Craig Lathrop: "I think we're on the same wavelength in terms of his approach to doing these films is to be as authentic as you possibly can be."

• Artistic Inspiration

  [05:02] Craig Lathrop: "The Romanticism, art movement... trying to push it a little bit more towards the romantic."

• Architectural Authenticity

  [06:10] Craig Lathrop: "There was a lot of brick Gothic, a lot of brick Renaissance and even Baroque... trying to make sure that we got that look."

• Realistic Rat Depiction

  [07:59] Craig Lathrop: "We used real rats on the set, thousands of them... the animal handlers were amazing."

• Pride in World-Building

  [15:51] Craig Lathrop: "We were able to create the world that Rob had envisioned and that it's cohesive and that helps the story."

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the essence of the podcast episode, providing an engaging overview of Craig Lathrop's role in bringing "Nosferatu" to life. From collaborative dynamics and research methodologies to innovative set designs and overcoming production challenges, listeners gain valuable insights into the art of production design within the context of contemporary filmmaking.