Robert Eggers to Direct Dark Christmas Carol with Willem Dafoe

Robert Eggers, acclaimed for his meticulous period horror films such as The Witch, The Lighthouse, and most recently Nosferatu, is embarking on a new project: a dark, horror-infused adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic A Christmas Carol for Warner Bros. This marks a notable shift as Eggers has traditionally focused on original stories, but his recent work on Nosferatu showed his growing interest in adaptations.

Eggers is reportedly eyeing his frequent collaborator, Willem Dafoe, to portray the iconic Ebenezer Scrooge. Given Dafoe’s intense screen presence and Eggers’ atmospheric style, this pairing promises a Scrooge like never before — dark, complex, and haunting.

The story’s original Victorian setting aligns perfectly with Eggers’ expertise in crafting evocative period atmospheres. His films are known for their painstaking attention to historical detail, immersive sets, and a blend of horror with emotional depth.

This adaptation could explore the darker, supernatural elements of Dickens’ tale with a fresh intensity, potentially redefining how audiences experience this holiday classic. It’s a perfect storm of brand recognition and auteur vision.

Eggers is also working on other projects such as Werwulf, a period horror film about werewolves, and a reboot of Labyrinth. While Werwulf is slated for Christmas 2026, the Christmas Carol adaptation could arrive by 2028, potentially delivering a chilling holiday experience.

For fans of dark fantasy and horror, this project is highly anticipated. It’s rare to see such a beloved story reimagined through the lens of a director known for his atmospheric dread and historical authenticity. With Dafoe as Scrooge, the film promises to be a standout in holiday cinema.

This adaptation could redefine the holiday classic, blending the warmth of Dickens’ message with the chilling tone Eggers is famous for. It’s a reminder that even the most familiar stories can be transformed into something thrilling and new.