Acclaimed filmmaker Robert Eggers has introduced his latest horror project Werwulf during a special presentation at CinemaCon in Las Vegas, offering audiences an early glimpse into what is being described as his most terrifying film to date.
Following the critical and commercial success of Nosferatu, the director shifts his focus from vampires to werewolves in this new feature. Co-written by Eggers, the film continues his signature atmospheric storytelling style, blending historical settings with unsettling horror elements.
The preview footage showcased a haunting visual tone, largely presented in black and white with subtle color accents. Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Lily-Rose Depp appear as a struggling village couple navigating a bleak and dangerous environment, accompanied by children as they move through grim surroundings.
A chilling voiceover urges viewers not to fear the darkness, while rapid scenes reveal chaos, tension, and glimpses of violence, including horses racing through misty forests. Notably, the titular creature remains hidden, continuing Eggers’ approach of building suspense without revealing the monster—similar to his marketing strategy for Nosferatu.
Set in 13th-century England, the story centers on a mysterious entity terrorizing rural communities, turning folklore into a living nightmare. The cast also includes Willem Dafoe, adding further depth to the film’s ensemble.
Werwulf is scheduled for release on Christmas Day 2026, positioning it as a counter-programming option during the holiday season. The project is backed by Focus Features, with production support from collaborators including Sjón and executive producers Chris Columbus and Eleanor Columbus.
Eggers has previously expressed his preference for historical storytelling, often avoiding modern-day settings in favor of richly detailed period narratives. His earlier film Nosferatu achieved global success, earning over $180 million and receiving multiple Academy Award nominations in technical categories.