‘Werewolves’ Review: Fur-Covered Chaos

Synopsis: In WEREWOLVES, a supermoon event has triggered a latent gene in every human on the planet, turning anyone who entered the moonlight into a werewolf for that one night. Chaos ensued and close to a billion people died. Now, a year later, the Supermoon is back…

There comes a time when fear can’t be enough to stop you. You’re going to encounter countless unavoidable moments throughout life where inaction simply isn’t an option. Whether it’s a small situation requiring minimal effort or a life-or-death scenario, you’re partially defined and most certainly judged by your decisions. Yes, the world is a scary place, but you have to be thoughtful and proactive before someone else chooses your outcome for you.

“He’s an addict without a fix… until tonight.”

With much to expound on and questions left unanswered, this may be the birth of a new and exciting franchise and I’m here for it. Directed by Steven C. Miller, Werewolves is a howling good time. It’s a little gruesome, a tad bit scary, and completely action-packed. Like most creature features, the monsters are a metaphor for a social or political message or observation, this film is no different. However, with its relatively less dramatic tone, its commentary on weaponized viruses and immigration can be quickly digested allowing you to indulge in all the fur-covered chaos and carnage.

As the affecting supermoon pandemic threatens to turn anyone whose bare skin is touched by its light, cities go into a full boxed-in lockdown. Not an ounce of moonlight can seep through your windows. Feeling reminiscent of The Purge meets our recent quarantine experience, people are either barricading in their homes from dusk till dawn or preparing to go out into the night armed like Rambo, while some prefer the canine metamorphosis, both intending to slaughter those they call neighbors. Like The Purge franchise, it holds a mirror showing humanity’s insatiable thirst for violence and destruction. Fortunately, there are always cooler and calmer heads present who want to minimize casualties and intend to do good. That’s where Dr. Marshall and Dr. Chen come into play. From experimentation and prevention to a deadly night of survival, the day transforms just as quickly as it takes someone to turn while bathing in moonlight.

“I don’t want to turn.”

Unfolding and moving around like a video game, this story is told from different tense perspectives. From the heroic Doctors to militia groups and mother-daughter duo, whether it’s loved ones or their own lives, the stakes are incredibly high. What makes this such a fun ride, besides the werewolves looking superb, is you’re immediately thrown into an ominous situation and only know as much as the perspectives allow. Furthermore, that lack of completely discernible information creates intrigue and opens the story up for a sequel. There are themes of family and duty that pair well with the heart that inhabits the mayhem-ridden storyline. Not to mention, viewing a pandemic through this lens is creative and insightful, and the use of practical SFX and succinct storytelling results in a memorable experience. Werewolves thrills and sends chills, and if you’re down for a good time, this is definitely worth it. Its rewatchability is medium.

Pace & Pop

The film’s pacing is excellent. Miller wastes no time getting to the point, nor does he make you wait until the last act to see the vicious bloodthirsty lycans you came to see. After some brief exposition and a quick mention of what the lunar-powered creatures may be a metaphor for, the film flows like your favorite RPG. What popped for me was the look of the werewolves. Not only does the practical approach look gnarly and amazing but it should be greatly appreciated.

Characters & Chemistry

Starring: Frank Grillo, Katrina Law, Ilfenesh Hadera, James Michael Cummings, Kamdynn Gary, with Lou Diamond Phillips

If Frank Grillo wasn’t already perfect for the role of Wesley Marshall, the third act solidifies it. Ilfenesh Hadera, as Lucy, is not to be played with. She goes full momma bear mode with a shotgun in hand. When it comes to protecting her daughter, Emma (Kamdynn Gary), anything with a pulse should beware. Katrina Law as Dr. Amy Chen pairs well with Grillo. The duo exudes respect and righteousness while giving the movie a Resident Evil 2 vibe.

Werewolves releases in theaters on December 6, 2024. Stay safe and stay inside.

Rated: R Runtime: 1h 34m Director: Steven C. Miller Writer: Matthew Kennedy Producers: Steven C. Miller, Craig Chapman, Myles Nestel, James Michael Cummings, Sevier Crespo, Jim Cardwell Executive Producers: Michael Becker, Vanzil Burke, Victor Burke, Kate Cohen, Stephen Emery, Ronnie Exley, Sean Krajewski, Lawrence Minicone, Manuel Molina, Jeremy Ross Director of Photography: Brandon Cox Music: James Burkholder, The Newton Brothers Editor: Greg MacLennan