Animal rights organization PETA has slammed the film «Nosferatu», accusing Robert Eggers of slandering rats. Animal rights activists are outraged by the erroneous portrayal of these animals as carriers of the plague in the director's new film. In their opinion, such stereotypes are not only unfair, but also deprive viewers of the opportunity to see rats as they really are: smart, sociable and loyal creatures, reports daily.afisha.ru.

PETA Director of Animals in Film and Television Roland Thomasson emphasized that rats are capable of forming strong social bonds, playing and even laughing. At the same time, they are much less likely to carry viruses than, for example, dogs or cats.

The organization called for abandoning outdated stereotypes and treating rats with the respect they deserve. In protest, PETA planned to hold a protest outside the cinema where «Nosferatu» was shown. Animal rights activists wanted to bring a giant rat to the event with a sign that read, «Rats have rights! We didn't cause the plague!» However, the event took place on Sunday without incident.

During the filming of the horror movie «Nosferatu», 5 000 live rodents were used. To ensure their safety and prevent escapes, production designer Craig Lathrop ordered special transparent fencing to be erected on the set. Particular attention was paid to scenes involving horses, where the risk to the animals was especially high.