I love it too. it completely took me by surprise. I didn't like the Insidious movies at all. Saw was ok. But Upgrade was amazing for such a "small" budget.
Just came from the cinema and I actually loved the movie, especially the way we're presented first hand with the transformation process internal aspects. And the way some subtle - and not so subtle - traits of an animal end up being incorporated in the wolf man. And the tension build-up is just spot on, the movie keeps you on the edge of your seat almost the whole time.
I think it was pretty interesting to approach the transformation as slow and painful, you can tell they drew a little inspiration from the fly and that’s a new angle for werewolves
what? Painful and slow transformations for werewolves have always been thing. You should see the transformation in the movie an american werewolf in London, it came out in 1981 so that's not really a new angle. If they drew inspiration from a movie it's from this one, the fly came after in 1986.
@ that is my number 1 favorite werewolf movie, but this is a even much slower transformation and it explores the psychological horror elements of each new step a bit more in depth, they definitely stretched it out a bit more than usual
I do really like Julia Garner, and I think she's a great actress, but I do think she was slightly miscast in this movie. I'm sure she does well in it, but I literally thought she was an older sister rather than a mother.
Came here exactly for that. They just did a bad job making her look "adult". Yes I know she is 30 and totally could be a mom already but maybe it was the hair or makeup but just didn't do it for me
It's interesting you make The Invisible Man comparison, as the reason for its success was humanizing an alternate perspective beyond the monster. I hope that Wolf Man can recapture that idea.
@@JaseVegas86 Because directors can make different types of movies. Wes Craven made A Nightmare on Elm Street but that has a completely different tone and approach than the Scream movies.
After watching since the beginning it's an adjustment to see that you are getting a touch of grey in your whiskers. I love your work. As a Blockbuster employee who spent 12 years in that world, I'm envious of your achievements. Yet proud at the same time. LOL
It sounds like Leigh Whannel had a pretty thorough and captivating concept but it didn't hit with a lot of people. Still, I'll check it out because I do love Upgrade and The Invisible Man.
The movie was really good. Jeremy and others were wrong about the movie. The pacing was really good and the concept was fleshed out well. I think Chris missed the ending. Don’t wanna spoil anything but the ending scene established the connection between the mother and the daughter if you can remember what the dad said in the beginning. Please lmk what you think if you see it. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed
@@jingleballs9935 I'll tell you where the 2010 remake lost me. The whole point of the original story was the relationship between the father and the son - everything else in it is secondary to that relationship. The psychology between the father, rooted in the present day, and his son, who's changing into this murderous beast every night, is what makes the film. In the 2010 remake, they unnecessarily made the father a wolfman too, and I felt it was cheapening the story just to have a monster battle toward the end. This is why I dislike the 2010 version of the film.
@@MetFan37 As someone who enjoys the 2010 movie, this is a solid gripe. This was a big change to the story that is definitely for the worse, but I would argue the movie still has multiple redeeming qualities that make it worth a watch.
I was suppose to go to the premiere of Wolf Man at the TCL Chinese Theater, but the premiere was cancelled cause of the wildfires in LA. Im glad it was cause those winds were so strong and I just didnt feel safe. I was sad cause I really wanted to go to the first premiere I'd go to in a couple of years, but I know there are more. I'll be going to see wolf man at a regular screen at the Chinese theater. I hope it's worth it tho. I hope those affected by the fires get the support that they need and I hope well for the time ahead.
i was also in Hollywood when the team at TCL were setting up for the premiere, the big security dude told me it would kick off at 6 that night but i totally forgot about it..?? anyway i feel better knowing that it was cancelled due to an absolute devastating wildfire..!!
You hit the nail on the head regarding why this film left me wanting. I was waiting for an emotional payoff that never came. Aside from that it was a wonderfully made, and fantastically acted movie.
So this appears to be a Ginger Snaps concept in terms of the transformation, but wondering if we'll get an actual werewolf in the end. It seems to me that they're removing the supernatural aspects from their classic horror monsters, and while that's an interesting take, "me no like it!" 2010's Wolfman was great despite its faults, so if they wanted a contemporary story just keep the monster, add him in here, and I think fans would be fine. Anyways, I hope I'm wrong, as I didn't plan on seeing this film after the reveal of that old angry crackhead being passed off as a werewolf, but I'll give it a try in support of the horror genre and hope to be surprised..
I thought the reconnection scene was them standing side by side, gazing at the view the dad wanted them to see in the beginning. This being grounded, after going through a literal nightmare, the experience would no doubt bond you with your mother whom you owe you're life to. I thought it was beautiful they got to see/understand what the dad wanted them to in the end. Despite him being dead
My largest issue with the film was the repetiveness of the type of scare formula. Run to this spot, get found, run to that spot, get found etc. There are some nuances that are put in, but I wish that pacing was handled a bit better. Although, Leigh did a great job of pulling out the details built on the motif of not understanding each other. Especially in the final act. (Spoiler: In the kitchen scene in the last act when the transformation is almost complete there's a moment when Christopher reaches out to his daughter, and Julia slashes him with a knife. I firmly believe that he was not attacking his daughter. In one of the previous scenes he was able to understand his daughter when she put her hand to his forehead. This was emphasized by the sound design perspective shift taking place before the visual shift, the viewers could understand what she was saying while still in the werewolf vision, meaning he probably could. This is again emphasized through Christopher's acting, where he is more aggressive to his wife than his daughter in the following scene. Yet he never attacks either, the wife was always attacking him. Subtle nuances like this built up the the stories final conclusion where Christopher never really hurt his wife or kid, was more just trying to communicate with them to kill him. When that happened, the story has no where left to go. While I do agree with Chris where there needed to be a bit more between the mother and daughter relationship, I believe that conclusion can be found in the simple fact that the daughter connected more with her father, with him gone, there is no longer that disconnect. The only beat where you can see them getting closer outside of horror fear (minus initial setup in the van travel scene) was when they were sleeping on the couch together when he initially passed out, I wish we had a scene of dialogue between the two before he woke up. The daughters over all understanding her fathers intentions, as if she could read his mind, was a great way to conclude her character growth in my opinion, proving that she really did understand and love her father until his final moments. The main conflict of the movie was based all around the fathers relationship with his family. I like ending on that final shot, remembering the words of Christopher's/His Fathers character "Whenever I see this view, I feel like everything's going to be okay.". Knowing how both of those characters ended up also kind of emphasizes how fucked up the characters were from the start, even before the transformation.) I like how many people can relate to this film in different contexts, given their own life and understanding. You can pull what you want from the film and get a enjoyable experience. I appreciate that depth, even if there was clunky dialogue and story beats.
"An American Werewolf in London" has, indeed, the best werewolf transformation scene ever. And also one of the best jumpscares. My favourite werewolf movie, however, is "Dog Soldiers": Dense atmosphere, authentic sounding soldier lingo and machismo, some at times hilarious dialogue, some gritty gore, scary creatures, very effective action scenes, never too over the top or leaning into cringe comedy.
The werewolf reveal after the transformation is one of the reasons why I love werewolf movies. Too bad I had high hopes for this cuz this werewolf design is a miss. I get that their trying to portray it a bit realistic and like an infection but it's a werewolf film. He looks like a mole rat rather than a wolf.
Thank You Chris, I am so glad to be a follower of yours. Because I know I can always trust your reviews. I saw The Wolf Man Saturday with my brother in law and best friend. My Bro in law thought it was pretty good, my best friend said there wasn't enough blood and guts for him. But me Chris, I Loved It. And when I got home I started watching all these podcast reviews and they all said the same thing. It was no good , it was disappointing. Except for one, this British young lady, who I'm also subscribed to. But she thought it was good to. But your review is "always right on point" And I'm glad to be Stuckminized
Just saw this at the cinema and immediately came home and logged on to your channel review. I absolutely LOVED it. Both seeing that breath-taking valley...the looks on their faces and remembering what Blake said before the horror hit the fan was my emotional payoff.
Pretty spot on review, I feel the same way for the most part. It's a very technically impressive movie. Lots of great shots, satisfying color grading + lighting, very believable practical effects, & terrifying sound design. Some great scares & tense moments. Pacing did feel good, never felt like it dragged. However, the dialogue wasn't great at times & some of the line delivery felt wooden. Not enough character development for my liking. I like the themes of the movie & the relationship between the father & daughter. But I felt like the family dynamic & the mother weren't fleshed out enough. I actually wish shit DIDN'T hit the fan so quickly, would've been nice to have some extra time on the farm developing these aspects further. Getting some glimpses of Wolfy and THEN hell breaking loose. Plus some more dialogue between mother & daughter at the end. Still a solid movie, enjoyed my time with it & would recommend.
I think the mom /daughter reconnecting did happen although briefly when she told her she will always be there for her no matter what. I also think what they really wanted to drive home with the last scenes was the dads biggest fear of scaring his kid for life (something he could not live with) and her overcoming that. To see her dad’s as just that and not a full on monster, to be the one to prompt her moms to give him peace in death.
Very interested in checking this movie out. I was more concerned since it was gonna be a January release, but from the early reviews, it sounds like this movie kinda breaks the "January Bad Movie Curse".
@ Den of Thieves 2 if you enjoy slow-paced heist films about the planning process of a heist and some interesting prolonged dialogue scenes, and The Damned in the first days of the year
I really loved this movie. Its my first werewolf film actually. It made me very emotional watching him lose his humanity and you see him slowly losing himself while trying to hold on to protect his family.
There have been so many different types through the years that it doesn't bother me, I'm sure he will look scary, it seems they are taking a more realistic approach like what if Human DNA mixed with Wolf DNA, it would probably look messy and grotesque like this, not the Wolfman with even hair length everywhere like he's well manicured and brushed daily 😂
Hmm, it felt incredibly slow-paced to me. Sure, shit hits the fan fast, but then it goes rather slow with dialogue that never really gets interesting. The characters aren't all that well-written either, but it has some really cool ideas with the camera, sound design and whatnot, so I enjoyed it overall.
I found it interesting that most of the movie takes place over the course of one night and that it's very much a DISEASE. You get irreversably changed by this and there's no hopping back and forth between monster and man. That and you get to slowly watch this man just break, which is something I don't remember seeing in other werewolf movies.
Loved his films, especially Upgrade. Wish they'd make a sequel. Seeing this on Friday. My favorite Wolfman movie is 2010's Wolfman with Anthony Hopkins. True classic! Then 90's flick Wolf with Jack Nicholson.
@Chris Stuckmann please review the films Presence & Companion as soon as you are able. I'm very curious to hear your thoughts on these two dark genre films. I myself am cautiously optimistic about both films.
Just saw it last night! I really cared about these characters and the movie does a good job of efficiently setting up their motivations and aspirations. Love being the key driver here is really nice. Highlighted in scenes such as when Blake has become just about full Wolfman, his humanity is maintained through the power of his love for his family and vice versa. the way Julia Garner stood both defiantly and compassionately for her husband when he quickly encroaches on her personal space as a monster really made me believe their love was real & powerful. Bc i was so invested in their story, i also did feel that let down of an emotional payoff with Charlotte & her daughter. And what is a movie without characters to root for? and i was definitely rooting for them all. 4/5 Wolfmans 🐺
I very much enjoyed this film! It the best remake I've seen of the classic Universal 1941 film. It has vibes of "The Fly" (1986) when it comes to the "changing/transforming" and slowly losing yourself and your sanity. It also has surprising heartfelt moments about family, parenting, growing up, & anxiety and that almost make you shed a tear in scene scenes.... -At the very least, tug at your heart a bit!
Impossible to watch a werewolf film and not think of American werewolf always being the best one but this one was unique interesting and kept me interested the whole time🎉 a cool fresh perspective from an awesome director that I hope to see much more from
I'm surprised you didn't talk about the look of the "werewolf". It's gotten a lot of heat and if the wolf looks like what was leaked, this is NOT a werewolf but a weregoblin
It was a good film. I really enjoyed it. I saw it with my 15 year old son. We both liked it alot. And showing some scenes from the Wolfmans perspective was the icing on top. I'm looking forward to another one!
I loved this movie! It was a creative take on werewolves and it wasn’t cheesy in the slightest. I was a little worried. But the message was great! The actors were great! The sfx makeup artist was fantastic!
💯 recommend going to see this! Me and my girlfriend loved it and would definitely watch it again. In my opinion it’s a new take which is a good thing. I really liked the wolfman design! So much more creepy looking
Different genre, but if you like the "wolf vision" you should watch the animated film Wolfwalkers. It's so good. I'd love to see you review it. P.S. I'm extremely disappointed this isn't a sexy werewolf, we peaked with Hugh Jackman Van Helsing werewolf and have never had such a great looking werewolf since. Very sad. Lol
Great review, Chris; thanks! So, Discord's been pretty quiet lately; any updates on Shelby Oaks, like estimates on when the Sponsor Packages might be sent, or maybe the digital dowloads at least? Screenings? Anything?
Can you answer this query? With the golden age of horror pre-1950s and the slasher age of horror post-1980s, who do you consider the ambassador [acting] of horror today? Vincent Price was my parents, and Robert Englund was my generation's. But I can't pin down the defacto ambassador of horror today? Considering the legacy of such a title, it is not surprising. Both Price and Englund are outstanding actors whose work spans every genre-from horror to drama, action, sci-fi, fantasy, and even comedy. I truly think both actors stand out uniquely. They're versatile, excelling in any role across various genres. However, I don't feel the same way about many of today's actors. Perhaps it's just a reflection of my weariness as a jaded Gen Xer. "Thrawl me with your acumen..."
The daughter had to have been one of the most unnecessary and annoying characters I’ve seen in a while. It’s like they wrote her to be 5 years-old, and then cast someone way older, and then had her say anything that spells out what was happening.
Finally somebody who sees this movie for what it is And not what it should've been! Everybody seemed to be nagging about the wolfman, not looking like a werewolf! They said the story wasn't good and I'm here scratching my head like "what are you guys talking about?" I thought it was a good movie.
If I remember properly, it has to be a bite - not a scratch - which transmits the wolf man curse, or 'sickness' in this case (even scientifically makes more sense because of the saliva).
Good review. I just saw the movie and agree with you. There is a scene where I’m thinking the mother will go and start bonding more with the daughter but she just stands in the hall. Even at the very end they could have showed them being closer. Anyway I still really liked it and it kept the tension and action going.
Whannell is yet to disappoint me when it comes to entertaining films. Upgrade was a blast and Invisible Man blew my mind. Being a Melbourne boy myself I’ve followed him since he co-hosted Recovery and watching how inspired he was back then to becoming one of my favourite Directors now is a trip. Love ya Leigh
I thought their mentioning of death cap mushrooms at the beginning, could be, and this is far fetched but stay with me, a tie-in to the plot as they mentioned that a hiker went missing in the woods, then the locals started seeing the face of a wolf in the woods. Later, you see the wolf man’s perspective in the movie, and anyone who’s done mushrooms knows you can achieve a heightened sense to sound, vision and colors. And with the death cap mushroom plot, the wolfman’s skin was also going through a stage of necrosis…so, just a thought I had that maybe this wolfman cycle was bourne out of a hiker having taken the death cap mushroom. And another thought, the dad in the beginning said if you take the mushroom, you better have a healthy liver near by or you’re dead…maybe the hiker was also a hunter, and killed a wolf too, then swapped livers after eating the mushroom to survive and then he took on wolf like traits? Eh, deal with that however you want, but I did enjoy the movie.
I have mixed feeling about it, but that makes sense as I don't really do body horror well. I love slashers and monster movies, but something about body horror that is just too much for me. Like you said, he does an awesome job especially in that tough talk near the beginning. Overall, like you said, knocks it out of the park for what it is.
I looked at my mom while we watched it in the theater where Blake talks about not wanting to “scar” his daughter and said “people don’t talk like that,” it felt so melodramatic and hammy.
I'm usually interested in seeing fresh takes on classic characters or properties, and love that this has taken inspiration from something like The Fly which is one of my favourite films. I'll still go into this with low expectations as I'm sure it has its issues but I'm liking the general direction they're taking at least. For those wanting a more faithful remake or adaptation of the original complete with a goofy perm'd up wolfman you literally have the 2010 film already, seems pretty stupid to just redo that again. Also that film didn't turn out that great either so maybe that's telling you something.
Leigh Whainell is sneaking into my favorite directors category only with Upgrade and Invisible man alone. Never saw any of insidious movies, but looks like i have to watch the one he directed
1:12 The theme and even the line is profound, but it was told by having the father do an exposition dump of the theme to his daughter, which felt a bit ham-handed.
Every review I've read lauds its compitence.... .... but what I'm hearing it is without that moment of the joy that comes from the Wonder of what you're seeing.
I couldn't agree more. I absolutely love this angle of the transformation into the "wolf". It's a very different adaptation of the wolf man. I enjoyed it and was very entertaining. I would suggest it to anyone who is open minded over horror movies
I just Watched the film and I found out many holes in the plot but it pays off by the incredible scenes showing the transformation in unique way (never saw something like that) really facinating and scary. Good movie to Watch.
I watched this movie today and really enjoyed it. It shows what you can accomplish with practical effects and creativity, as well as a good cast and director.
I enjoyed this movie! Spoiler alert I really liked the ending scene when his daughter and wife actually ended up forming a connection, maybe not in the best way and also they got to see the view of the mountains he wanted them to see, the parallels between being in treehouse in the beginning and end is super cool, I really don’t think anyone should bash on this one. It’s got some cool themes. Great acting, very unsurprising to see. The scenes where the wolf man’s senses change into
super cool parallel as well between the last shot and shot with him and his dad. Like you say, lack of connection between father and son which ties into new connection between mother and daughter
I loved this movie. I agree that it was a bit disappointing to not have that emotional payoff towards the end , but loved the simplicity of the entire thing.
The Lost in Space movie made the same points 30 years ago and everyone still shits on it. “Funny creatures, man. They try so hard not to be their fathers and end up making the same mistakes.” Spider Smith isn’t even that different of an idea because he was Will’s surrogate father that John has to fight and kill.
Watched this last night. A few bad reviews, but I thought it was a good movie. Everything about the transformation up until the final payoff was great. Slightly let down by the end "beast." A werewolf movie should always be about the wolf. However, I'd still recommend giving it a watch.
Whannell takes a small budget and makes movies that look like they cost a lot more. And they are so effective at what they do. "Upgrade" was a very pleasant surprise, and "Invisible Man" made empty furniture full of suspense and dread. But a lot of that is that he gets great performances from his actors. Logan Marshall Green (Upgrade) and Elizabeth Moss (Invisible Man) are both very effective in the lead roles.
Not a lot of dialogue in this movie. Each character had about 10 words each. The movie was very scary and started out well, but the story petered off. It was dark and hard to see some things that were going on. Would have liked to see more storyline. Very gory, too.
A review without a sponsor segment is a true blessing these days
i had that same profile pic of giz for years dude
As long as it’s not Betterhelp it’s fine
People need to make a living, y'all can just skip it weirdos
I don't even click the videos for the reviews. I click to make myself annoyed at seeing Betterhelp
So even when he doesn’t do a sponsor people find a way to complain. Give the guy a break. TH-cam pays very little.
UPGRADE is my current favorite “I know you’ve never heard of this, but you’ll love it” movies for non-genre fan friends
I love it too. it completely took me by surprise. I didn't like the Insidious movies at all. Saw was ok. But Upgrade was amazing for such a "small" budget.
...that ending 😲
Good time that movie! You watch the signal?
I’ve seen it and it is good, it has the guy from Prometheus who resembles Tom hardy
@ Yes. That's the one with the guys that follow a hacker's signal and then they wake up in what they initially think is a government compound right?
Chris dressed like a wolfman in a wolfman review. Brilliant!!!
Good catch
Haha... great comment
😂 I caught that too
I didn't catch that I just oh he looks good in plaid 😂
I don't get it. It's just a normal shirt.
Just came from the cinema and I actually loved the movie, especially the way we're presented first hand with the transformation process internal aspects. And the way some subtle - and not so subtle - traits of an animal end up being incorporated in the wolf man.
And the tension build-up is just spot on, the movie keeps you on the edge of your seat almost the whole time.
I think it was pretty interesting to approach the transformation as slow and painful, you can tell they drew a little inspiration from the fly and that’s a new angle for werewolves
what? Painful and slow transformations for werewolves have always been thing. You should see the transformation in the movie an american werewolf in London, it came out in 1981 so that's not really a new angle. If they drew inspiration from a movie it's from this one, the fly came after in 1986.
@ that is my number 1 favorite werewolf movie, but this is a even much slower transformation and it explores the psychological horror elements of each new step a bit more in depth, they definitely stretched it out a bit more than usual
@ oh ok i didn't understand it that way sorry for the misunderstanding and thanks for the explanation
Eh Ginger Snaps kind of already did the whole “turns into a werewolf over the course of the movie” angle
@@conormurphy4328so did the movie Wolf
I do really like Julia Garner, and I think she's a great actress, but I do think she was slightly miscast in this movie. I'm sure she does well in it, but I literally thought she was an older sister rather than a mother.
Same. I legit did not know she was the wife til I read the synopsis
don't millennials look young though?
people dont believe im 32. they say i look like im 24-25 @@Michelrs
Came here exactly for that. They just did a bad job making her look "adult". Yes I know she is 30 and totally could be a mom already but maybe it was the hair or makeup but just didn't do it for me
She could pass for a CW teen but in reality no, she looks 30ish.
It's interesting you make The Invisible Man comparison, as the reason for its success was humanizing an alternate perspective beyond the monster. I hope that Wolf Man can recapture that idea.
How is it interesting when it’s same director 😂
@@JaseVegas86 Because directors can make different types of movies. Wes Craven made A Nightmare on Elm Street but that has a completely different tone and approach than the Scream movies.
I've seen ya wrapping presents when it's nobody's birthday!
@@BatAmericadifferent type, same schtick
@ on earth you talking about
After watching since the beginning it's an adjustment to see that you are getting a touch of grey in your whiskers. I love your work. As a Blockbuster employee who spent 12 years in that world, I'm envious of your achievements. Yet proud at the same time. LOL
It sounds like Leigh Whannel had a pretty thorough and captivating concept but it didn't hit with a lot of people. Still, I'll check it out because I do love Upgrade and The Invisible Man.
The best thing I can say about the movie is that it’s short an hour and a half. But it’s bad very bad.
The movie was really good. Jeremy and others were wrong about the movie. The pacing was really good and the concept was fleshed out well. I think Chris missed the ending. Don’t wanna spoil anything but the ending scene established the connection between the mother and the daughter if you can remember what the dad said in the beginning. Please lmk what you think if you see it. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed
The transformation scene in the 2010 movie is great too. Such a fantastic "I warned you" moment. And that Danny Elfman score....
That movie is my favorite werewolf movie for sure.
@@jingleballs9935 I'll tell you where the 2010 remake lost me. The whole point of the original story was the relationship between the father and the son - everything else in it is secondary to that relationship. The psychology between the father, rooted in the present day, and his son, who's changing into this murderous beast every night, is what makes the film. In the 2010 remake, they unnecessarily made the father a wolfman too, and I felt it was cheapening the story just to have a monster battle toward the end. This is why I dislike the 2010 version of the film.
IMO , "An American Werewolf in London" says , Hold my beer
@@MetFan37 As someone who enjoys the 2010 movie, this is a solid gripe. This was a big change to the story that is definitely for the worse, but I would argue the movie still has multiple redeeming qualities that make it worth a watch.
@@MetFan37 I understand the gripe for sure. I wouldn't have minded the change, but Anthony Hopkins was CLEARLY phoning it in. It was a shame too.
You and Jeremy jahns are the guys I listen to when it comes to movies. I’m from the uk. And love your reviews. Thank you
A review longer then the Sponsor AD, truly a blessing
I was suppose to go to the premiere of Wolf Man at the TCL Chinese Theater, but the premiere was cancelled cause of the wildfires in LA. Im glad it was cause those winds were so strong and I just didnt feel safe. I was sad cause I really wanted to go to the first premiere I'd go to in a couple of years, but I know there are more. I'll be going to see wolf man at a regular screen at the Chinese theater. I hope it's worth it tho. I hope those affected by the fires get the support that they need and I hope well for the time ahead.
Is the TCL theater a good place to watch a movie? I fell in love with regal downtown at LA live but never been to Chinese theater
If u watch an imax movie in the actual chinese auditorium its 100% worth going
I saw Dune 2 there and it was amazing
i was also in Hollywood when the team at TCL were setting up for the premiere, the big security dude told me it would kick off at 6 that night but i totally forgot about it..?? anyway i feel better knowing that it was cancelled due to an absolute devastating wildfire..!!
You hit the nail on the head regarding why this film left me wanting. I was waiting for an emotional payoff that never came. Aside from that it was a wonderfully made, and fantastically acted movie.
But does it answer that most important question, does Wolfman have nards?
Do it do it!
Monster Squad!!!!
Thank you
Really hairy ones forsure
Can neither confirm or deny
So stoked on Wolf Man! Great review, Chris.
So this appears to be a Ginger Snaps concept in terms of the transformation, but wondering if we'll get an actual werewolf in the end. It seems to me that they're removing the supernatural aspects from their classic horror monsters, and while that's an interesting take, "me no like it!" 2010's Wolfman was great despite its faults, so if they wanted a contemporary story just keep the monster, add him in here, and I think fans would be fine. Anyways, I hope I'm wrong, as I didn't plan on seeing this film after the reveal of that old angry crackhead being passed off as a werewolf, but I'll give it a try in support of the horror genre and hope to be surprised..
It's not a Werewolf (i.e. a Furry) it's very much Lon Cheney Jr. esque, though there's some like......Gollum/ The Descent cave people aspects to it
I thought the reconnection scene was them standing side by side, gazing at the view the dad wanted them to see in the beginning. This being grounded, after going through a literal nightmare, the experience would no doubt bond you with your mother whom you owe you're life to. I thought it was beautiful they got to see/understand what the dad wanted them to in the end. Despite him being dead
Stuck man's gotten really good at politely saying how movies suck
My largest issue with the film was the repetiveness of the type of scare formula. Run to this spot, get found, run to that spot, get found etc. There are some nuances that are put in, but I wish that pacing was handled a bit better.
Although, Leigh did a great job of pulling out the details built on the motif of not understanding each other. Especially in the final act.
(Spoiler: In the kitchen scene in the last act when the transformation is almost complete there's a moment when Christopher reaches out to his daughter, and Julia slashes him with a knife. I firmly believe that he was not attacking his daughter. In one of the previous scenes he was able to understand his daughter when she put her hand to his forehead. This was emphasized by the sound design perspective shift taking place before the visual shift, the viewers could understand what she was saying while still in the werewolf vision, meaning he probably could. This is again emphasized through Christopher's acting, where he is more aggressive to his wife than his daughter in the following scene. Yet he never attacks either, the wife was always attacking him. Subtle nuances like this built up the the stories final conclusion where Christopher never really hurt his wife or kid, was more just trying to communicate with them to kill him. When that happened, the story has no where left to go.
While I do agree with Chris where there needed to be a bit more between the mother and daughter relationship, I believe that conclusion can be found in the simple fact that the daughter connected more with her father, with him gone, there is no longer that disconnect. The only beat where you can see them getting closer outside of horror fear (minus initial setup in the van travel scene) was when they were sleeping on the couch together when he initially passed out, I wish we had a scene of dialogue between the two before he woke up. The daughters over all understanding her fathers intentions, as if she could read his mind, was a great way to conclude her character growth in my opinion, proving that she really did understand and love her father until his final moments.
The main conflict of the movie was based all around the fathers relationship with his family. I like ending on that final shot, remembering the words of Christopher's/His Fathers character "Whenever I see this view, I feel like everything's going to be okay.". Knowing how both of those characters ended up also kind of emphasizes how fucked up the characters were from the start, even before the transformation.)
I like how many people can relate to this film in different contexts, given their own life and understanding. You can pull what you want from the film and get a enjoyable experience. I appreciate that depth, even if there was clunky dialogue and story beats.
I give it a C-…….. Could’ve given it a B if the wolfman was designed better.
A hairless wolfman???
Tbf this isn't a traditional werewolf. The movie treats it as an illness/disease.
Yeah the 2010 was way better
"An American Werewolf in London" has, indeed, the best werewolf transformation scene ever. And also one of the best jumpscares.
My favourite werewolf movie, however, is "Dog Soldiers": Dense atmosphere, authentic sounding soldier lingo and machismo, some at times hilarious dialogue, some gritty gore, scary creatures, very effective action scenes, never too over the top or leaning into cringe comedy.
The werewolf reveal after the transformation is one of the reasons why I love werewolf movies. Too bad I had high hopes for this cuz this werewolf design is a miss. I get that their trying to portray it a bit realistic and like an infection but it's a werewolf film. He looks like a mole rat rather than a wolf.
He looked more like a mountain man than a wolf, I think.
Thank You Chris, I am so glad to be a follower of yours. Because I know I can always trust your reviews. I saw The Wolf Man Saturday with my brother in law and best friend. My Bro in law thought it was pretty good, my best friend said there wasn't enough blood and guts for him. But me Chris, I Loved It. And when I got home I started watching all these podcast reviews and they all said the same thing. It was no good , it was disappointing. Except for one, this British young lady, who I'm also subscribed to. But she thought it was good to. But your review is "always right on point" And I'm glad to be Stuckminized
Just saw this at the cinema and immediately came home and logged on to your channel review. I absolutely LOVED it. Both seeing that breath-taking valley...the looks on their faces and remembering what Blake said before the horror hit the fan was my emotional payoff.
I thought it sucked and the way the werewolf looked was laughable! 🚽
It was a boring 'I've seen that before' movie, which added nothing to the formula.
The Universal Monsters is an awesome horror film franchise
How many movies are there?
@sonupuppy6419only the ones from the golden era this new stuff is crap.
@sonupuppy641920
Well in the original movies from the 1930s
Pretty spot on review, I feel the same way for the most part. It's a very technically impressive movie. Lots of great shots, satisfying color grading + lighting, very believable practical effects, & terrifying sound design. Some great scares & tense moments. Pacing did feel good, never felt like it dragged. However, the dialogue wasn't great at times & some of the line delivery felt wooden. Not enough character development for my liking. I like the themes of the movie & the relationship between the father & daughter. But I felt like the family dynamic & the mother weren't fleshed out enough. I actually wish shit DIDN'T hit the fan so quickly, would've been nice to have some extra time on the farm developing these aspects further. Getting some glimpses of Wolfy and THEN hell breaking loose. Plus some more dialogue between mother & daughter at the end. Still a solid movie, enjoyed my time with it & would recommend.
I think the mom /daughter reconnecting did happen although briefly when she told her she will always be there for her no matter what.
I also think what they really wanted to drive home with the last scenes was the dads biggest fear of scaring his kid for life (something he could not live with) and her overcoming that. To see her dad’s as just that and not a full on monster, to be the one to prompt her moms to give him peace in death.
Very interested in checking this movie out. I was more concerned since it was gonna be a January release, but from the early reviews, it sounds like this movie kinda breaks the "January Bad Movie Curse".
Not the first film this month to break that
@theblobconsumes4859 Wait? There's another?
@ Den of Thieves 2 if you enjoy slow-paced heist films about the planning process of a heist and some interesting prolonged dialogue scenes, and The Damned in the first days of the year
This is getting horrible reviews. The more reviews that come out the lower the score.
Hollywood insiders are pimping yet another piece of garbage.
I really loved this movie. Its my first werewolf film actually. It made me very emotional watching him lose his humanity and you see him slowly losing himself while trying to hold on to protect his family.
My only issue is the Wolfman look more like a feral goblin
There have been so many different types through the years that it doesn't bother me, I'm sure he will look scary, it seems they are taking a more realistic approach like what if Human DNA mixed with Wolf DNA, it would probably look messy and grotesque like this, not the Wolfman with even hair length everywhere like he's well manicured and brushed daily 😂
He look like the werewolf in the quarry game
@@tomsklanka9436absolute low standards dude.
@@tomsklanka9436yeah it’s a half and half situation, I liked it but I would’ve liked better a more wolfier one.
@tomsklanka9436 I have def seen werewolves with full-on perms. They were well-groomed for sure😂
Hmm, it felt incredibly slow-paced to me. Sure, shit hits the fan fast, but then it goes rather slow with dialogue that never really gets interesting. The characters aren't all that well-written either, but it has some really cool ideas with the camera, sound design and whatnot, so I enjoyed it overall.
I liked seeing things from Blake’s perspective as he was slowly transforming but that’s pretty much it.
From what I have seen the make up effects look like he becomes an ancient asian fellow who hands out sage advice
That's the creature that attacks the main character
are you going to watch I'm Still Here??
I hope so.
He won't mention it if he ends up disliking it
Shut up bro
Jkjk
I found it interesting that most of the movie takes place over the course of one night and that it's very much a DISEASE. You get irreversably changed by this and there's no hopping back and forth between monster and man. That and you get to slowly watch this man just break, which is something I don't remember seeing in other werewolf movies.
Please review Better Man. Can't wait to hear your take. You're the best reviewer on the tube. Thank you!
Never seen worse chemistry between actors
I saw Wolf Man yesterday with a friend, and considering it was my first movie I saw this year. I absolutely loved the movie, and I rate it 10/10.
Good one 🤣
@AA-BB what's funny?
I left the cinema thinking the same...10/10
Loved his films, especially Upgrade. Wish they'd make a sequel.
Seeing this on Friday.
My favorite Wolfman movie is 2010's Wolfman with Anthony Hopkins. True classic!
Then 90's flick Wolf with Jack Nicholson.
@Chris Stuckmann please review the films Presence & Companion as soon as you are able. I'm very curious to hear your thoughts on these two dark genre films. I myself am cautiously optimistic about both films.
Just saw it last night! I really cared about these characters and the movie does a good job of efficiently setting up their motivations and aspirations. Love being the key driver here is really nice. Highlighted in scenes such as when Blake has become just about full Wolfman, his humanity is maintained through the power of his love for his family and vice versa. the way Julia Garner stood both defiantly and compassionately for her husband when he quickly encroaches on her personal space as a monster really made me believe their love was real & powerful. Bc i was so invested in their story, i also did feel that let down of an emotional payoff with Charlotte & her daughter. And what is a movie without characters to root for? and i was definitely rooting for them all. 4/5 Wolfmans 🐺
I very much enjoyed this film!
It the best remake I've seen of the classic Universal 1941 film.
It has vibes of "The Fly" (1986) when it comes to the "changing/transforming" and slowly losing yourself and your sanity.
It also has surprising heartfelt moments about family, parenting, growing up, & anxiety and that almost make you shed a tear in scene scenes....
-At the very least, tug at your heart a bit!
Impossible to watch a werewolf film and not think of American werewolf always being the best one but this one was unique interesting and kept me interested the whole time🎉 a cool fresh perspective from an awesome director that I hope to see much more from
Does this movie have the same premise as “Beast within”?
Really dig that there is no betterhelp sponsor segment in this video
Saw this movie at a preview screening last night. Thought it was solid! Though I do prefer Whannell’s The Invisible Man as well
Thank you for all your videos and reviews
I'm surprised you didn't talk about the look of the "werewolf". It's gotten a lot of heat and if the wolf looks like what was leaked, this is NOT a werewolf but a weregoblin
It was a good film. I really enjoyed it. I saw it with my 15 year old son. We both liked it alot. And showing some scenes from the Wolfmans perspective was the icing on top. I'm looking forward to another one!
Definitely hit all the spots. Great performance, cinematography and pace from the opening scene to the end.
I loved this movie! It was a creative take on werewolves and it wasn’t cheesy in the slightest. I was a little worried. But the message was great! The actors were great! The sfx makeup artist was fantastic!
💯 recommend going to see this! Me and my girlfriend loved it and would definitely watch it again. In my opinion it’s a new take which is a good thing. I really liked the wolfman design! So much more creepy looking
Maybe I missed it but in this version how does he get infected to become the wolf man? When did it happen? That was unclear to me
Lee Cronin is making The Mummy with Atomic Monster, Blumhouse and New Line Cinema (New Line & Blumhouse are the same team behind The Gallows)
Loved this version! Loved the practical effects and the wolfman design is very unique while staying true to the original design
Crossing fingers for a Better Man review 🤞
I've seen ya wrapping presents when it's nobody's birthday.
Different genre, but if you like the "wolf vision" you should watch the animated film Wolfwalkers. It's so good. I'd love to see you review it.
P.S. I'm extremely disappointed this isn't a sexy werewolf, we peaked with Hugh Jackman Van Helsing werewolf and have never had such a great looking werewolf since. Very sad. Lol
Great review, Chris; thanks! So, Discord's been pretty quiet lately; any updates on Shelby Oaks, like estimates on when the Sponsor Packages might be sent, or maybe the digital dowloads at least? Screenings? Anything?
Can you answer this query? With the golden age of horror pre-1950s and the slasher age of horror post-1980s, who do you consider the ambassador [acting] of horror today? Vincent Price was my parents, and Robert Englund was my generation's. But I can't pin down the defacto ambassador of horror today? Considering the legacy of such a title, it is not surprising.
Both Price and Englund are outstanding actors whose work spans every genre-from horror to drama, action, sci-fi, fantasy, and even comedy. I truly think both actors stand out uniquely. They're versatile, excelling in any role across various genres. However, I don't feel the same way about many of today's actors. Perhaps it's just a reflection of my weariness as a jaded Gen Xer.
"Thrawl me with your acumen..."
I absolutely loved it. It’s relentless from start to finish. Excellent scares, lots of tension. The score is great too.
The daughter had to have been one of the most unnecessary and annoying characters I’ve seen in a while. It’s like they wrote her to be 5 years-old, and then cast someone way older, and then had her say anything that spells out what was happening.
Finally somebody who sees this movie for what it is And not what it should've been! Everybody seemed to be nagging about the wolfman, not looking like a werewolf! They said the story wasn't good and I'm here scratching my head like "what are you guys talking about?" I thought it was a good movie.
Sounds like a long movie without actual Wolfman. Invisible Wolfman!!!
my other favorite chris also talking about the wolf man? today is a wonderful day!
If I remember properly, it has to be a bite - not a scratch - which transmits the wolf man curse, or 'sickness' in this case (even scientifically makes more sense because of the saliva).
Good review. I just saw the movie and agree with you. There is a scene where I’m thinking the mother will go and start bonding more with the daughter but she just stands in the hall. Even at the very end they could have showed them being closer. Anyway I still really liked it and it kept the tension and action going.
So on a scale 1 through 10 how good is the movie ?
3 at max. Don't expect too much.
2.8 and that’s generous.
@@ytviceman7495 damn I had high hopes
The movie is great definitely worth a watch
@ your easily pleased then. It was terrible
Wow, just realized I like all of this directors films. Never heard of the guy
Ikr...Stephen King like
absolutely the coolest feeling when you discover that
Whannell is yet to disappoint me when it comes to entertaining films. Upgrade was a blast and Invisible Man blew my mind. Being a Melbourne boy myself I’ve followed him since he co-hosted Recovery and watching how inspired he was back then to becoming one of my favourite Directors now is a trip. Love ya Leigh
I thought their mentioning of death cap mushrooms at the beginning, could be, and this is far fetched but stay with me, a tie-in to the plot as they mentioned that a hiker went missing in the woods, then the locals started seeing the face of a wolf in the woods. Later, you see the wolf man’s perspective in the movie, and anyone who’s done mushrooms knows you can achieve a heightened sense to sound, vision and colors. And with the death cap mushroom plot, the wolfman’s skin was also going through a stage of necrosis…so, just a thought I had that maybe this wolfman cycle was bourne out of a hiker having taken the death cap mushroom. And another thought, the dad in the beginning said if you take the mushroom, you better have a healthy liver near by or you’re dead…maybe the hiker was also a hunter, and killed a wolf too, then swapped livers after eating the mushroom to survive and then he took on wolf like traits? Eh, deal with that however you want, but I did enjoy the movie.
I have mixed feeling about it, but that makes sense as I don't really do body horror well. I love slashers and monster movies, but something about body horror that is just too much for me. Like you said, he does an awesome job especially in that tough talk near the beginning. Overall, like you said, knocks it out of the park for what it is.
I honestly thought this was terrible. The performances were really stiff. The dialogue was clunky and it was for the most part...dull
I looked at my mom while we watched it in the theater where Blake talks about not wanting to “scar” his daughter and said “people don’t talk like that,” it felt so melodramatic and hammy.
I'm usually interested in seeing fresh takes on classic characters or properties, and love that this has taken inspiration from something like The Fly which is one of my favourite films. I'll still go into this with low expectations as I'm sure it has its issues but I'm liking the general direction they're taking at least.
For those wanting a more faithful remake or adaptation of the original complete with a goofy perm'd up wolfman you literally have the 2010 film already, seems pretty stupid to just redo that again. Also that film didn't turn out that great either so maybe that's telling you something.
Leigh Whainell is sneaking into my favorite directors category only with Upgrade and Invisible man alone. Never saw any of insidious movies, but looks like i have to watch the one he directed
That's my favorite one. He handled it well in my opinion.
Great review, you nailed it. This film was much better than i expected
1:12 The theme and even the line is profound, but it was told by having the father do an exposition dump of the theme to his daughter, which felt a bit ham-handed.
I dont like the "grounded" universal monsters concept. A fanged crackhead is NOT the Wolfman. Ill definitely watch this on TV.
Every review I've read lauds its compitence....
.... but what I'm hearing it is without that moment of the joy that comes from the Wonder of what you're seeing.
Is there an after credit scene?
No
Hey Chris, did you watch I'm Still Here? As a brazilian really curious to see what you though.
I couldn't agree more. I absolutely love this angle of the transformation into the "wolf". It's a very different adaptation of the wolf man. I enjoyed it and was very entertaining. I would suggest it to anyone who is open minded over horror movies
Is this the American version of The Beast Within with Kit Harrington?
I think it might be.
The best within, wow that’s going back a ways
I just Watched the film and I found out many holes in the plot but it pays off by the incredible scenes showing the transformation in unique way (never saw something like that) really facinating and scary.
Good movie to Watch.
I watched this movie today and really enjoyed it. It shows what you can accomplish with practical effects and creativity, as well as a good cast and director.
He didn't even howl at the moon ONCE. I want my money back. 0/10
Remus Lupin will always be my favorite werewolf in cinema 🐺
If you like how they did him in the film version, you’ll LOVE the final design of the wolf.
I was gonna go see it but reviews are bad so I got a refund on my tickets. Waiting for Companion instead now…
100% the right decision 👍🏽
How many Wolf Man movies do we need?
Just came out of the theatre and I have to say, this was better than expected. Love the POV from a werewolf perspective!!! 7/10
I enjoyed this movie!
Spoiler alert
I really liked the ending scene when his daughter and wife actually ended up forming a connection, maybe not in the best way and also they got to see the view of the mountains he wanted them to see, the parallels between being in treehouse in the beginning and end is super cool, I really don’t think anyone should bash on this one. It’s got some cool themes. Great acting, very unsurprising to see. The scenes where the wolf man’s senses change into
super cool parallel as well between the last shot and shot with him and his dad. Like you say, lack of connection between father and son which ties into new connection between mother and daughter
This movie was excellent
Under you the person said it’s bad
Wish you would bring the grading system back. Ever since you started directing.....oh well
I loved this movie. I agree that it was a bit disappointing to not have that emotional payoff towards the end , but loved the simplicity of the entire thing.
The Lost in Space movie made the same points 30 years ago and everyone still shits on it.
“Funny creatures, man. They try so hard not to be their fathers and end up making the same mistakes.”
Spider Smith isn’t even that different of an idea because he was Will’s surrogate father that John has to fight and kill.
Watched this last night. A few bad reviews, but I thought it was a good movie. Everything about the transformation up until the final payoff was great. Slightly let down by the end "beast." A werewolf movie should always be about the wolf. However, I'd still recommend giving it a watch.
I hope this is good because I really like Leigh Whannell.
Can’t wait to see Wolf Man. Invisible Man gets Far more mention in this review than it deserves, imo.
Whannell takes a small budget and makes movies that look like they cost a lot more. And they are so effective at what they do. "Upgrade" was a very pleasant surprise, and "Invisible Man" made empty furniture full of suspense and dread. But a lot of that is that he gets great performances from his actors. Logan Marshall Green (Upgrade) and Elizabeth Moss (Invisible Man) are both very effective in the lead roles.
Not a lot of dialogue in this movie. Each character had about 10 words each. The movie was very scary and started out well, but the story petered off. It was dark and hard to see some things that were going on. Would have liked to see more storyline. Very gory, too.