Hideo Kojima Reacts After Watching Robert Eggers’ Nosferatu

Japanese pioneer video game developer Hideo Kojima reacts to Robert Eggers’ Nosferatu remake after seeing the movie in theaters. Released in the United States on December 25, Robert Eggers’ latest horror movie didn’t arrive in Japanese theaters until May 15. Best known for creating and directing the Metal Gear series, the game developer currently has three games in development, including Death Stranding 2, OD, and Physint.

Kojima has now taken to X to reflect on his viewing experience at a sold-out screening of Nosferatu. The video game developer and director was blown away by the world-building and visuals, praising Eggers’ “spellbinding” work and how the Gothic horror had elevated Dracula into art. Check out his post below:

Nosferatu Continues To Receive Acclaim From Big Names In The Industry

Kojima’s review of Nosferatu highlights the level of detail that went into the world-building and visuals in the movie and offers a glimpse into the enthusiasm Japanese horror fans have for Eggers’ feature. Known for his authentic filmmaking, The Lighthouse’s director has gone to great lengths in creating the experience in his 2024 Gothic horror film, including using thousands of live rats, filming in a haunted castle, and using period-accurate candlelight. Kojima’s praise, which echoed the critical acclaim the film has received since its release, is a testimonial to Eggers’ work.

Kojima also joins the list of renowned figures in the industry to sing their praises for Gothic horror, including legendary director Martin Scorsese, Blumhouse Productions founder and CEO Jason Blum, and Anora’s director Sean Baker. Nosferatu, having received an 84% critical approval from 358 reviews on Rotten Tomatoes, is widely well-received. However, the film didn’t win an Oscar in the four categories for which it was nominated.

Our Take On Robert Eggers’ Nosferatu

Nosferatu Should Have Won An Oscar

Kojima has openly praised others’ work in the game and movie industries, including Joker: Folie à Deux and Grand Theft Audio V. Still, the level of admiration he has for Nosferatu speaks volumes. As someone who specializes in storytelling and world-building, his comment offers some insight into the nuances in the use of lights and shadows in creating the film’s distinct and memorable atmosphere.

It is surprising that Nosferatu didn’t win an Oscar in 2025 for its cinematography, costume design, makeup and hairstyling, or production design, but it didn’t stop the film from being recognized across the industry. Following the success of his Gothic horror film, Robert Eggers is reteaming with Focus Features for a werewolf horror feature titled Werwulf, scheduled to release on December 25, 2026.

Source: Hideo Kojima/X