The Wolfman
Inspired by the classic Universal film that launched a legacy of horror, The Wolfman brings the myth of a cursed man back to its iconic origins. Oscar winner Benicio Del Toro stars as Lawrence Talbot, a haunted nobleman lured back to his family estate after his brother vanishes. Reunited with his estranged father (Oscar winner Anthony Hopkins), Talbot sets out to find his brother… and discovers a horrifying destiny for himself.
I had high expectations before going to see The Wolfman, firstly because of the Oscar winning cast and secondly because of the visually luxurious trailer.
On these two counts the film delivers. The cinematography is outstanding, the mist shrouded woods, the chilling Talbot Manor and the grimy streets of London all transport you into the menacing world of Victorian England with a werewolf on the loose. The transformed Benicio Del Toro does bear a likeness to the original 1941 Wolfman which gives him that classic horror feel, although at some points he also reminded me of a certain small furry character from Star Wars: Return of the Jedi… which is not so scary…
The acting is solid as expected but it was a shame that the script lacked the depth for you to really get involved with the characters, especially Blunt, whom I felt had lost out a bit with the seemingly nonchalant Gwen Conliffe. Hugo Weaving is an excellent addition to the story and is utterly brilliant as Abberline.
Overall though, I found the film a bit all over the place, speeding through parts of the story that need a bit more explanation and unity. I wasn’t moved or petrified. However, the blood curdling howls and scattered body parts, essential to any werewolf movie, coupled with the overall ambiance was enough to keep me happy.
