The second trailer for Robert Eggers’ Werwulf was released online today, Saturday, following an exclusive press presentation on Friday that Desde Hollywood was invited to attend. During a conversation moderated by Focus Features Chairman Peter Kujawski (affectionately known as “Kujo”) the filmmaker revealed why he wrote the movie specifically for Aaron Taylor-Johnson and shared new details about his ambitious medieval horror film.

“I wrote this for Aaron,” Eggers explained, citing the actor’s dance background, athleticism and distinctive screen presence.

“Aaron has a haunted quality, which is something I look for in most of my actors,” he added.

Eggers described Taylor-Johnson as a warm, gentle and devoted father whose personality contrasts sharply with the brutal world of Werwulf. That contrast, he believes, makes the actor particularly compelling as a man trapped by a supernatural curse.

Aaron Taylor-Johnson’s Extraordinary Physical Transformation

Filming proved exceptionally demanding for Taylor-Johnson, who spent considerable time nearly naked, covered in blood and performing elaborate physical sequences in the Welsh countryside.

Following a screening of footage featuring a striking transformation sequence, Kujawski emphasized that Taylor-Johnson performed the extraordinary movements himself, without artificially accelerated footage.

“That is Aaron’s body doing that,” he confirmed.

Eggers clarified that certain elements, including a moment when the character’s head turns backward, required prosthetic makeup.

The production also involved uncomfortable costumes, difficult terrain and meticulously choreographed camera movements. Some sequences required approximately 14 takes, making trust between actor and director essential.

Building Trust With His Actors

Reflecting on The Lighthouse, Eggers recalled discovering that rehearsing with established stars was surprisingly similar to his early experiences in theater. The difference was collaborating with actors such as Willem Dafoe and Robert Pattinson.

For the filmmaker, working with committed performers and developing lasting relationships allows everyone to push their creative boundaries.

He also described Lily’s character as the emotional soul of Werwulf. Although the actress possesses a naturally light and ethereal quality, her role demanded an earthy, grounded presence that provides an emotional anchor for Taylor-Johnson’s protagonist.

Recreating a Medieval World That Feels Like Hell

Eggers recalled that cinematographer Jarin Blaschke reacted to the screenplay by asking whether the story was supposed to take place in hell.

That description captured precisely what the director envisioned.

Although medieval historians might object to his depiction of the Middle Ages as relentlessly muddy, filthy and miserable, Eggers considered those conditions essential to the protagonist’s experience.

Extensive historical research informed the production design. Because surviving medieval structures have generally been modified over time, the filmmakers constructed their own environments.

Even seemingly insignificant details serve a purpose. Eggers cited Willem Dafoe’s costume, explaining that the character’s buttons and jewelry distinguish his privileged social position from the film’s peasants.

Kujawski also recalled Eggers’ insistence on historically appropriate construction tools for The Witch, including traditional handsaws that produce a different finish on wooden boards than modern equipment.

Watch the new trailer below and get ready to experience WERWULF in theaters, this Christmas.