Nosferatu (1922)
The first movie ever to be made based on Bram Stoker's "Dracula" was, ironically, done without consent of the author. Considered a classic for its mood and ambience, Nosferatu, paints a very different picture of the vampire we are accustomed to. Shot without sound, the film is also the closest film adaptation of book that exists. Without Florence Stoker's consent, director F.W. Murnau changed the name of some of the characters and plot points. There aren't transformations into vampires or holy water and crosses; Instead of a hypnotic and seducing image of a vampire, as it's been the custom ever since Lugosi's "Dracula", we are presented with a repugnant evil image with a rodent-like face.
The story revolves about real state agent Thomas Hutter (Gustav von Wangenheim) and his beautiful wife Ellen (Greta Schroder). Thomas makes a trip to the Carpatian Mountains in order to meet with the sinister Count Orlock (Max Schreck). Not heeding the warnings of the local, Thomas barely escapes with his life from the Count's castle but not before Count Orlock catches a glimpse of Thomas' wife on a picture and decides to make her his victim. Now the Count is making his way back to Breman, Germany to pay a visit to young Ellen.