Robert Eggers’ ‘Werwulf’ Begins Production: Gothic Horror Returns

Introduction

Director Robert Eggers, renowned for The Witch (2015), The Lighthouse (2019), and Nosferatu (2024), has officially begun production on his latest Gothic horror project, Werwulf. Announced on September 8, 2025, the film reunites key cast members Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Lily-Rose Depp, and Willem Dafoe. Fans worldwide are already buzzing about what promises to be another meticulously crafted horror experience.

Plot and Setting: A 13th-Century Werewolf Tale

While Eggers keeps story details under wraps, Werwulf is reportedly set in 13th-century England, blending historical authenticity with supernatural horror. The film explores lycanthropy through folklore-based storytelling, featuring period-accurate dialogue and medieval settings. Unlike mainstream werewolf films that focus on romance or action, Werwulf promises atmospheric dread, a hallmark of Eggers’ work.

The title itself, spelled in Old English, signals Eggers’ dedication to historical immersion. Expect fog-shrouded landscapes, practical effects, and a psychologically tense narrative that emphasizes terror over spectacle.

Robert Eggers’ ‘WERWULF’ enters production today.

Starring Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Lily-Rose Depp and Willem Dafoe. pic.twitter.com/hQKHwaujH7

— Film Updates (@FilmUpdates) September 8, 2025

Cast: Iconic Reunion of Horror Stars

• Aaron Taylor-Johnson likely assumes the central role, possibly the cursed werewolf or a key figure caught in its lore.
• Lily-Rose Depp, known for nuanced horror performances, may play the pivotal female lead intertwined with the werewolf mythos.
• Willem Dafoe, Eggers’ frequent collaborator, adds gravitas and intensity, potentially portraying a scholar, antagonist, or enigmatic mentor.

This reunion follows the acclaimed Nosferatu (2024), which grossed over $200 million worldwide. While some fans express concern over repetitive casting, the chemistry and experience of this trio could elevate the film’s storytelling.

Production and Release Timeline

Focus Features backs the project, with Eggers producing alongside his regular partners. Filming began September 8, 2025, though locations remain undisclosed. The film is scheduled for December 25, 2026, positioning it as a unique holiday counterprogramming option for horror fans. Expect practical effects, historical accuracy, and immersive set designs that reflect Eggers’ signature style.

Why ‘Werwulf’ Matters in Modern Horror

Eggers is a master of elevated horror, combining meticulous historical detail with existential dread. Transitioning from witches, vampires, and Vikings to werewolves allows him to explore Gothic horror in a fresh, immersive way. In a genre dominated by CGI, Eggers’ emphasis on authenticity and atmosphere makes Werwulf stand out as an intellectually engaging horror experience.

FAQs

Q1: Who is directing Werwulf?

A1: Robert Eggers, known for The Witch, The Lighthouse, and Nosferatu.

Q2: Who are the main stars of Werwulf?

A2: Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Lily-Rose Depp, and Willem Dafoe.

Q3: When did production start?

A3: September 8, 2025.

Q4: When is the release date?

A4: December 25, 2026.

Q5: What is the setting of the film?

A5: 13th-century England, focusing on historical werewolf legends.

Q6: Is this a sequel to Nosferatu?

A6: No, it’s a separate story, though it reunites some of the same cast members.

Q7: Why is Werwulf considered unique in the horror genre?

A7: Eggers combines historical authenticity, practical effects, and psychological horror, offering a fresh take on Gothic horror narratives.

Conclusion

Werwulf represents a bold continuation of Robert Eggers’ artistic vision, blending folklore, history, and intense psychological horror. While fans debate cast repetition, Eggers’ commitment to immersive storytelling ensures that the film will not merely entertain but challenge audiences intellectually and emotionally. This production is more than just a new horror release—it is an evolution of Gothic cinema, promising a deep dive into the dark, enigmatic corners of medieval England, where monsters are as much about humanity as they are about myth.