Universal Pictures has released the first trailer for Werwulf, a gothic horror film directed by Robert Eggers, featuring Aaron Taylor-Johnson in a terrifying transformation. The film is scheduled for a Christmas Day release on December 25, marking another collaboration between Eggers and the creative team behind Nosferatu.
Plot and Setting of Werwulf
Set in 13th century England, Werwulf follows a remote rural community as folklore becomes reality. According to the official synopsis, a mysterious creature stalks the fog-covered countryside, leaving frightened villagers to confront an ancient evil from local legend. The trailer establishes an ominous atmosphere with bleak landscapes, medieval settlements, and growing panic as the beast begins its hunt.
Cast and Crew
Aaron Taylor-Johnson stars as the man whose horrifying transformation lies at the story's center. The footage hints at a gradual, disturbing physical change and emotional conflict as the curse takes hold. This reunites Taylor-Johnson with Eggers after Nosferatu. Lily-Rose Depp also returns, along with Willem Dafoe and Ralph Ineson, who join Eggers in another atmospheric period horror. The supporting cast includes Jack Morris, Jan Bijvoet, Ritchi Edwards, and Bodhi Rae Breathnach.
Eggers co-wrote the screenplay with Icelandic novelist and poet Sjón, continuing a partnership that produced The Northman in 2022. They also produce alongside Focus Features, while Chris Columbus and Eleanor Columbus executive produce through Maiden Voyage.
Eggers' Track Record and Anticipation
Werwulf continues Eggers' relationship with Focus Features, which distributed all his films. His previous release, Nosferatu, premiered on Christmas Day 2024 and earned over $181 million worldwide after a strong holiday opening. Lily-Rose Depp starred as Ellen Hutter, haunted by Count Orlok (Bill Skarsgård), while Taylor-Johnson played Friedrich Harding, a skeptical friend.
Eggers is known for distinctive historical horror like The Witch, The Lighthouse, and The Northman, recognized for meticulous historical detail, atmospheric cinematography, and psychologically complex storytelling—qualities that appear in Werwulf. The trailer offers only brief glimpses of the creature, focusing on suspense and eerie imagery, reflecting Eggers' preference for building tension through atmosphere.
With an accomplished cast and a richly detailed historical setting, Werwulf is generating anticipation among horror fans. The film arrives in cinemas on December 25.
