Hi all! 

Today I am reviewing new-release, horror: Wolf Man. It hit cinemas this month, allowing me the opportunity of seeing it on the big screen. Directed by Leigh Whannell, this film follows Blake and his family. When they are attacked by an unseen animal, the family barricade themselves inside a farmhouse. As the night stretches on, Blake begins to behave strangely, transforming into something unrecognisable that soon jeopardises his wife and daughter. Without further ado, let’s get into it!

WHAT WORKED:

Wolf Man’s best asset were its visuals. It is set in central Oregon, among lush valleys and crystal blue lakes. It takes its time building up the family storyline, so we as viewers, care about the characters. The movie is meant to tug on your heartstrings, as we watch a man who adores his wife and child devolve into madness. As the transformation occurs, the plot suddenly becomes less wholesome and a lot more gruesome. Wolf Man does not shy away from gore, body horror and violence. There were some truly excellent, unique scenes regarding the perspective of the wolf and the transitions between animal and man. I also peeped a reference to the original Saw from 2004, which I REALLY enjoyed. Finally, I want to commend Christopher Abbott and Julia Garner’s performances. They gave it their all. I really bought their marital struggles, parenting insecurities and bravery. I can confidently say, the positives outweigh the negativites. 

WHAT DIDN’T WORK:

I truly wanted to love Wolf Man so much more than I did, but the pacing really stopped me in my tracks. The movie would drag in parts, suddenly speed up and then slow back down again. It felt very off to me, to the point where I couldn’t really discern the middle and third act. Furthermore, I struggled to see. It predominately takes place in the middle of the night, so a lot of the scenes are shot in pitch black. You’ll need to turn your brightness up in order to gauge what is actually happening. It isn’t my favourite Leigh Whannell film. 

OVERALL STAR RATING:

I gave it 4.1/5 stars. It was solid. 

Have you seen Wolf Man? What did you think of it?  

Peace & Love xoxo