Review by Jon Donnis
Leigh Whannell's Wolf Man is a bold reimagining of the classic werewolf tale, blending family drama with body horror in a way that feels both fresh and reverent of its genre roots. Set against the eerie backdrop of rural Oregon, the film captures the isolation and creeping dread that make for a proper horror experience, even if it occasionally leans too heavily into its dramatic elements at the expense of outright terror.
Christopher Abbott shines in his role as Blake Lovell, bringing a layered performance that balances vulnerability with raw intensity. His transformation from troubled father to full-blown monster is a slow burn, and while the pacing might test the patience of some viewers, it allows for a genuine connection to his character. Julia Garner is equally impressive as Charlotte, Blake's wife, who faces the impossible task of protecting her daughter while grappling with the unravelling of her husband. Matilda Firth as Ginger offers a convincing portrayal of a child caught in the chaos, her innocence heightening the stakes.
The film's practical effects are a standout feature, harking back to the tactile artistry of classic creature films. From the initial stages of Blake's infection to his ultimate transformation, every detail is meticulously crafted, creating a visceral and often unsettling visual journey. The werewolf itself is terrifyingly realised, with a grounded, animalistic design that avoids over-the-top flourishes in favour of gritty realism.
Whannell's direction is sharp, with a keen sense of atmosphere. The tension builds steadily as the family's predicament worsens, punctuated by moments of shocking violence and chaos. The body horror elements are handled with great care, making the audience squirm without veering into gratuitous territory. The setting plays a key role, the isolated farmhouse and surrounding forest creating a claustrophobic sense of vulnerability that enhances the film's tension.
Despite its strengths, the film stumbles in a few areas. The slow pacing of the first act might leave some viewers yearning for a quicker descent into the horror elements. The delay in showing Blake's full transformation, while intentional, feels overly drawn out and diminishes the impact when it finally occurs. The story also feels underdeveloped in places, with characters like Derek and Grady leaving little lasting impression beyond their immediate roles in the plot. The film hints at deeper themes, such as generational trauma and the struggle to escape one's past, but it doesn't fully explore them, leaving a sense of missed potential.
At its core, Wolf Man is a film that prioritises atmosphere and emotional depth over straightforward scares. It takes a classic concept and reshapes it with a modern sensibility, blending grounded drama with visceral horror. While it doesn't entirely stick the landing, it offers enough tension, strong performances, and impressive practical effects to satisfy fans of the genre.
For all its flaws, Wolf Man is an admirable effort that stands out for its grounded approach and moments of genuine horror. It may not reach the heights of Leigh Whannell's best work, but it's a compelling take on the werewolf mythos that deserves recognition. I'd give it a solid 6.5 out of 10.
In cinemas now!
