Robert Eggers, acclaimed director of Nosferatu, is reportedly set to adapt Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol in a new film, with Willem Dafoe rumored for the role of Ebenezer Scrooge. The project, which would continue Eggers’ signature gothic style, has yet to be officially confirmed but already has the film industry buzzing, especially with reports that Eggers is writing the role of Scrooge specifically for Dafoe.
Eggers to Tackle a Legendary Ghost Story with Warner Bros.
According to industry sources, Robert Eggers is both writing and directing an adaptation of the classic Dickens novella partnering with Warner Bros. While no deals have been finalized, whispers suggest that Eggers envisions Willem Dafoe as his lead, bringing even more anticipation to the project.
This possible casting would mark the fourth collaboration between Eggers and Dafoe, following The Lighthouse, The Northman, and the successful recent release Nosferatu. Dafoe’s ongoing partnership with Eggers has resulted in critically acclaimed performances, so the prospect of him portraying the miserly Scrooge is generating excitement among fans and critics alike.
Anticipating a Distinctly Dark Take on A Christmas Carol
Eggers’ reputation for dark, moody period pieces is expected to influence his approach to A Christmas Carol. The timeless story of Ebenezer Scrooge’s transformation has seen countless adaptations, including plays, graphic novels, TV movies, and even light-hearted renditions such as The Muppets’ version. Still, Eggers’ version promises an especially gothic twist, fitting the already somber and supernatural nature of the original tale.
Charles Dickens’ 19th-century novella, known for its bleak atmosphere and eventual uplifting message, remains a cornerstone of holiday literature. With Eggers at the helm and Dafoe potentially leading the cast, audiences can expect a version that leans into the eerie and dramatic elements while staying true to the classic story’s spirit.
Eggers’ Recent Work and What Lies Ahead
Eggers’ directorial vision recently found major box office and critical success with Nosferatu, starring Bill Skarsgård as Count Orlok. The gothic film grossed over $181 million and received widespread praise, with one review summing up:
Nosferatu delivers a relatively straight re-telling of this classic gothic tale. It looks and sounds stunning and is packed with vampiric horror. It doesn’t push many boundaries but if you wanted the classic Dracula narrative feeling exactly like it’s directed by Robert Eggers, you’re going to love it.
—Nosferatu review
Before audiences see Eggers’ take on Dickens, he is reportedly working on another project, Werwulf, a werewolf story set in 13th-century England. While details on both Werwulf and the new Christmas Carol remain scarce, expectations are high following Eggers’ recent track record of atmospheric, period-driven storytelling.
Awaiting Release Dates and Industry Impact
Neither a release date for Robert Eggers adapting A Christmas Carol movie nor for Werwulf has been announced. The likelihood of another visually rich, character-driven retelling from Eggers increases anticipation not only for fans of Dickens but for film enthusiasts who appreciate gothic cinema. As the film industry looks ahead, the partnership between Eggers and Dafoe continues to attract attention, promising a potentially unforgettable version of this beloved holiday classic.
