AtanariaLeigh Whannell has done it again. After reinventing The Invisible Man with chilling effectiveness, he now brings his signature blend of horror and emotional depth to Wolf Man. This reimagining of the classic Universal Monster film is far more than just another werewolf movie—it’s a deeply unsettling, psychological descent into grief, identity, and the monstrous potential lurking within us all.
A Story That Cuts Deep
Christopher Abbott and Julia Garner star as Blake and Charlotte, a couple whose already fragile relationship is put to the ultimate test when a terrifying attack leaves them and their daughter (Matilda Firth) barricaded inside their remote farmhouse. However, the true horror lies not outside, but within. As Blake begins a horrifying transformation, the film masterfully blends physical horror with emotional devastation, making his metamorphosis as tragic as it is grotesque.
The Horror Hits Hard
Whannell’s ability to make horror both visceral and meaningful is on full display here. The body horror elements are gruesome—expect to see nails ripping off, bones shifting unnaturally, and a jaw-snapping sequence that will haunt your dreams. The impeccable sound design makes every crunch and tear feel excruciatingly real, amplifying the terror. Yet, the true horror lies in the psychological unraveling of Blake, mirroring classics like The Fly in its exploration of a man losing himself to something inhuman.
Performances That Elevate the Terror
Abbott delivers a heart-wrenching performance, capturing both the physical agony and emotional torment of his transformation. Garner is equally compelling, portraying Charlotte’s helplessness and fear with raw intensity. However, it’s young Matilda Firth who steals the show, navigating the film’s terrifying emotional landscape with an eerie maturity. Her performance adds a layer of heartbreak to an already emotionally charged film.
Strengths and Weaknesses
While Wolf Man is an undeniably effective horror film, it’s not without its divisive elements. Some may find it overly reliant on jump scares, though they are well-executed and serve to heighten the tension. The creature design has also sparked debate—some audiences may have preferred a more traditional werewolf look. Additionally, while the film explores powerful themes, certain plot beats might feel predictable to seasoned horror fans.
Thematic Depth: More Than Just a Monster Movie
Beyond the scares, Wolf Man delves into the complexities of grief and identity. Whannell uses Blake’s transformation as a metaphor for the way loss and trauma can consume a person, changing them into something unrecognizable. The film asks difficult questions—how much of ourselves can we lose before we’re no longer who we once were? Can love survive in the face of inevitable change? These themes elevate Wolf Man beyond a standard creature feature and into the realm of truly thought-provoking horror cinema.
The Cinematic Experience: A Must-See in Theaters
The film’s stunning use of sound and cinematography makes it a must-watch on the big screen. Every creak of the farmhouse, every guttural growl, and every agonizing transformation is heightened by the theater experience. The tension is relentless, keeping the audience on edge from start to finish. Blumhouse’s sense of aesthetics is nothing short of amazing, they seem to consistently work with the best cinematographers out there, bringing horror to the highest ranks of Art and visual refinement. Rendering horror through Turner-abiding craftmanship seems to have become their top-selling point as a production company and I’m 100% here for it anytime they release a movie. “Wolf Man” is no exeption to this rule and I praise the visual work that has been accomplished both on the longer shot sequences in the dark and the close up shots of the stunning cast (Julia Gardner’s calm as ever distressed face is one of the most tantalizing images I have seen in nowadays horror films).
All in All…
Despite minor flaws, Wolf Man is a triumph in modern horror. Whannell proves once again that true terror isn’t just about monsters—it’s about loss, fear, and the horrors that lie within ourselves. With its nerve-wracking suspense, stunning performances, and harrowing emotional depth, Wolf Man is a must-watch for horror fans. Just be sure to check the lunar calendar before heading to the theater—you might not want to walk home under a full moon.
