The 1941 Universal classic, “The Wolf Man,” introduced audiences to Lawrence Talbot, played by Lon Chaney Jr. This character, a man of pure heart who becomes a werewolf under the full moon, was not based on traditional werewolf lore but was largely a creation of the film itself. This gothic and atmospheric movie essentially established the werewolf tropes that are still recognizable today.
In 2010, “The Wolf Man” was remade as “The Wolfman.” Despite impressive practical makeup effects by the renowned Rick Baker, the film suffered from studio interference and underperformed at the box office. The film was further criticized for replacing some of Baker’s practical makeup with subpar CGI. However, Universal, in collaboration with Blumhouse and Leigh Whannell, has decided to revisit the character with “Wolf Man,” a contemporary take on the classic. In this version, Christopher Abbott undergoes a horrific transformation into a monster, much to his family’s terror. A new trailer for “Wolf Man” is now available for viewing.
The official synopsis is as follows:
Christopher Abbott, a Golden Globe nominee known for his roles in “Poor Things” and “It Comes at Night,” portrays Blake, a San Francisco-based husband and father. After his father disappears and is presumed dead, Blake inherits his remote childhood home in rural Oregon. As his marriage to his successful wife, Charlotte (played by Emmy winner Julia Garner of “Ozark” and “Inventing Anna”), begins to unravel, Blake convinces her to take a break from city life and visit the property with their young daughter, Ginger (Matlida Firth of “Hullraisers” and “Coma”).
However, as they approach the farmhouse late at night, they are attacked by an unseen creature. In a frantic attempt to escape, they barricade themselves inside the house as the creature lurks outside. As the night progresses, Blake starts to act oddly, transforming into something unrecognizable. This leaves Charlotte with a terrifying decision: determining whether the threat inside their home is more deadly than the danger outside.
Beware of the Wolf Man
Universal
Leigh Whannell is well-versed in revising classic Universal monster movies. In 2020, he directed “The Invisible Man,” a fantastic modernization of the Universal classic. The film pitted Elisabeth Moss against her abusive (and invisible) ex-boyfriend. Whannell’s involvement in the project is cause for excitement, given his proven track record (as evidenced by his outstanding sci-fi action thriller “Upgrade”).
However, I have some reservations. A version of the wolf man from this film appeared at Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights recently, and it was somewhat disappointing. Granted, this was a costumed character in broad daylight, so the film’s version, professionally shot with studio lighting, will likely differ. But it didn’t inspire much confidence. The new trailer offers a fleeting glimpse of the wolf man, and I must admit, I’m not entirely impressed by what I see. Nevertheless, I trust Leigh Whannell. I believe he will deliver a quality film, and I eagerly anticipate its release next year. One thing I would like to note: if there is a major transformation scene in this movie, I sincerely hope it employs practical effects. A CGI werewolf transformation scene is somewhat sacrilegious.
Whannell recently discussed the film with EW, providing some insight into his approach to this iconic monster. “I really wanted it to be about disease, this idea that the human body is so fragile and we really don’t get that much time with our loved ones,” said Whannell. “The first draft was written during the pandemic in 2020. The world was upside down. Everybody’s in their houses. Everybody’s afraid of this bug that’s going around. People are dying. While I wouldn’t say this is a COVID movie, I would say the environment of that year really seeped into this script. It’s about how tragic it is when disease comes into your life. I think the story of the Wolf Man fits well with a story of degenerative disease.”
“Wolf Man” will be released in theaters on January 17, 2024.
FAQs
Who is the director of the new “Wolf Man” movie?
Leigh Whannell, known for his work on “The Invisible Man” and “Upgrade,” is the director of the new “Wolf Man” movie.
Who is starring in the new “Wolf Man” movie?
Golden Globe nominee Christopher Abbott and Emmy winner Julia Garner are among the main cast of the new “Wolf Man” movie.
When will the new “Wolf Man” movie be released?
“Wolf Man” is set to be released in theaters on January 17, 2024.
What is the new “Wolf Man” movie about?
The movie follows the story of a man who transforms into a werewolf, causing terror within his family. The film also explores themes of disease and the fragility of the human body.
Credit: www.slashfilm.com
