Lily-Rose Depp’s audition tape for her role in the Nosferatu remake has made its way online, sparking a significant discussion.
The film, an American gothic horror version of the original 1922 Nosferatu, itself an adaptation of Bram Stoker’s 1897 Dracula novel, has been a topic of conversation since its Christmas Day release in theaters.
Critics have been impressed, awarding it an 84 percent on Rotten Tomatoes. They’ve praised it as a masterful blend of horror and seduction, complete with unsettling scenes typical of a quality vampire film.
Bill Skarsgård’s portrayal of Count Orlok has left audiences disturbed, especially as he appears unrecognizable due to a moustache, prosthetics, and the notable prosthetic penis.
Set in the 1830s in Germany, the narrative centers on Ellen Hunter, played by Lily-Rose Depp. Her character appeals to a ‘supernatural being’ to escape her loneliness, ultimately committing herself to him forever.
The film includes some provocative scenes where Ellen is captured by dreams of the demon, finding a troubling pleasure in the figure haunting her nightmares.
Now, at 25, Lily-Rose’s audition footage for the role has been published, and opinions are split.
Being the daughter of Johnny Depp and Vanessa Paradis, a French singer and actress, it’s no shock that Lily-Rose seems perfect for such a gothic part. Her audition tape clearly demonstrates why she was chosen for the role immediately.
In the 13-second video, Lily-Rose, recording herself via Zoom, appears with disheveled hair and mascara streaking her face.
She delivers lines from the script with a range of intense, eerie tones, transitioning from whispers to shouts within seconds.
The clip has gone viral, with fans on social media praising her portrayal of Ellen as “award-winning” and noting it as simply “good f****** acting.”
Others on Twitter compliment Lily-Rose as a naturally gifted actress, with some scenes reportedly overshadowing her father’s performances.
One fan remarked, “She didn’t just rely on her father’s name – her effort speaks volumes,” while others suggested that “talent runs in the family.”
Another viewer commented, “This is a work of art.”
Conversely, some found the clip uncomfortably intimate, with one stating, “The shot needs to be wider.”
A critic mentioned, “Her acting in the movie was legit good. This audition was painful to watch. I suppose directors can see through this, as she was stellar in the movie.”
The audition tape also reportedly left a strong impression on director Robert Eggers, the casting team, and the videographer, who were all moved to tears by her performance, according to Tribune.
Eggers described it as “incredibly raw, raw, and powerful.”
Reviewers from Discussing Film have since hailed her performance in Nosferatu as “breathtaking” and “the film’s beating heart.”
They remarked, “Depp goes above and beyond as she contorts her body in freakish ways during moments when Ellen succumbs to Nosferatu’s influence, making way for a more visceral and unforgettable viewing experience.”
“Undoubtedly, Depp delivers the latest addition to the hall of greatest modern horror performances.”
Upon first viewing the completed film, Lily-Rose told Harpers Bazaar, “Oh my God! It’s not just scary, it’s gross, it’s revolting. It’s palpably effective.”