PETA has sparked controversy yet again, this time over the portrayal of rats in the classic horror film *Nosferatu*. The organization is expressing outrage over a fabricated narrative, claiming that the film erroneously implies rats are responsible for spreading the plague, which is not the case according to the film’s actual depiction.
Plausible Misinterpretations in *Nosferatu*
In *Nosferatu*, Count Orlok, portrayed by Bill Skarsgård, enters a town besieged by an overwhelming number of rats, which serves as a backdrop for his feeding on the townsfolk. The townspeople fear the plague has invaded their community due to the rat infestation, but the true source of their illness lies in the presence of Orlok himself. The narrative draws from Bram Stoker’s original novel, highlighting the character’s supernatural ability to command rats, rather than suggesting that the rodents are the carriers of disease.
PETA’s Statement and Reaction
Despite the film’s actual message, PETA has taken a firm stance on the matter. Their claims are compounded by recent studies suggesting that humans were primarily responsible for disseminating the Bubonic Plague, rather than the rats themselves. This perspective aligns with PETA’s ongoing mantra of “don’t blame animals.” However, the film does not attribute blame to the rats for carrying the plague; rather, it emphasizes Orlok’s control over them.
To amplify their message, PETA has plans to stage a public display at the premiere of *Nosferatu*, featuring a rat bearig a sign that reads, “Rats Have Rights! We Didn’t Cause the Plague!” This approach has led many to question the seriousness of their campaign and suggest they reference the film’s source material prior to issuing controversial statements.
Controversial Campaigns and Misplaced Anger
PETA’s response to a fictional portrayal of rats exemplifies their tendency to overreact. Their anger seems misplaced, directed towards a character’s fictional actions rather than the narrative’s structure. This raises questions: Will PETA next campaign against Count Orlok for his fictional behavior? Or is this another instance of their dramatic outreach?
Lauren Thomasson, PETA’s Director of Animals in Film and Television, articulated the organization’s position, stating, “A human is no more likely to be harmed or killed by a rat in real life than by a vampire, and false portrayals of these animals as harbingers of death deny viewers the chance to see them as the intelligent, social, and affectionate individuals they are. The only ‘pests’ moviegoers need to be concerned with are directors who subject animals to the chaos and confusion of a film set, and PETA encourages everyone to see through these shameful stereotypes and give rats the respect they deserve.”
A Clarification
For those concerned about the portrayal of rats in *Nosferatu*, take it easy—they’re merely puppets in Orlok’s dark game and not the cause of any plague. The narrative suggests that the true terror stems from the vampire himself, not the innocent rats. It’s worth stressing that while both rats and humans contributed to the spread of disease historically, it’s essential to appreciate the distinction between cinematic fiction and real-world events.
For further insights on this amusing backlash, please visit The Mary Sue.
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