Directed by Leigh Whannell, “Wolf Man” is a cabin-in-the-woods thriller that follows Julia Garner as Charlotte, a weary wife struggling to cope with her husband Christopher Abbott’s transformation into a savage animal. The film is a strange beast, blending elements of psychological trauma and violence, but ultimately falling short in its pacing and character development.
The movie centers around Blake, a troubled writer whose childhood experiences have left emotional scars. When he takes his family on a trip to the woods for some much-needed therapy, the past comes back to haunt him. As Blake’s temper flares up, so does his transformation into a werewolf-like creature, putting his wife and daughter in grave danger.
While “Wolf Man” lacks the edge of its predecessor, “The Invisible Man,” it still manages to evoke a sense of extreme pathos through Whannell’s direction. The film’s use of practical effects is commendable, but the transformation scenes, although impressive, can’t quite match the gold standard set by Rick Baker in “An American Werewolf in London.”
One notable aspect of the film is its exploration of abuse and the passing down of emotional trauma through family lines. This theme is hinted at throughout the movie, but ultimately feels like a missed opportunity for more nuanced character development.
Overall, “Wolf Man” is a generic cabin-in-the-woods frightener that relies too heavily on sound effects and lighting. Despite its flaws, it’s a flawed but fascinating exploration of the human psyche, and Garner’s performance as Charlotte is one of its few redeeming qualities.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/16/movies/wolf-man-review.html