‘Howls With Raw Emotion’: Wolf Man Has Screened, And Critics Are Hitting Social Media With Their First Reactions To The Classic Horror Remake

It’s great if everyone had a chance to enjoy the heartwarming movies during the holiday season, as we now move on to the 2025 movie lineup. There are some chilling horror films coming up, and one of the earliest in the genre is Leigh Whannell’s reimagining of the iconic “Wolf Man,” a modern take on Lon Chaney Jr.’s 1941 original. Critics have already seen the movie before its release on January 17, and they’re sharing their initial thoughts online. Check it out to see if this is a film that will leave you yearning for more.

In the new movie, Christopher Abbott takes on the role of Blake, a family man who transforms into a menace to his loved ones following a werewolf attack. Julia Garner plays his wife Charlotte, while Matilda Firth is cast as their daughter Ginger. Preliminary reviews suggest that this film, directed by Leigh Whannell, promises to be both terrifying and emotionally intense for the start of the year. Peter Gray from The AU Review comments:

2025 kicked off with a bang for me as a cinema enthusiast, with the release of “Wolf Man”. Leigh Whannell masterfully stripped away excess elements, delivering a gripping, uncompromising thriller that’s deeply rooted in animistic storytelling. It skillfully explores complex relationship dynamics, loss, and generational trauma. The sound design is impeccable, and the organic scares are genuinely terrifying, making for an unforgettable cinematic experience.

Tessa Smith from Mama’s Geeky concurs, commending the acting skills of Christopher Abbott and Julia Garner alongside the contributions made by those working off-screen. In simpler terms, she appreciates both their on-stage performances and the work done behind the scenes.

The Wolf Man isn’t just frightening, it delivers a powerful emotional impact. It made me jump with fear and then moved me to tears. The acting is exceptional, and the cinematography is mind-blowing. The way the camera switches perspectives demonstrates a horror masterclass. I absolutely adored it!

The Wolf Man isn’t just scary; it left me feeling quite emotional. It had me jumping from my seat and then tearing up. The acting is superb, and the cinematography is breathtaking. The way the camera switches viewpoints showcases a horror masterclass. I couldn’t get enough of it!

In my perspective, this contemporary film beautifully echoes the 1941 classic, capturing a similar sense of melancholy. Yet, the director ingeniously channels this emotion through his personal apprehensions about parenthood. By updating the setting, he manages to breathe new life into the timeless horror genre’s monster figure, all while preserving its enduring appeal. Griffin Schiller from FilmSpeak adds this insight.

Leigh Whannell once again demonstrates his expertise in creating suspense and soundscapes with “Wolf Man.” This innovative reinterpretation has elements reminiscent of both “The Shining” and “The Fly.” It delivers a tense, heart-pounding portrayal of parental anxiety, blended with gruesome body horror, yet surprisingly infused with warmth. If you appreciated “The Invisible Man,” you’ll find this one captivating as well!

Another critic isn’t the only one drawing parallels between “Wolf Man” and Leigh Whannell’s 2020 sci-fi/horror film “The Invisible Man”. According to Benjamin Watts of IGN, if Elisabeth Moss’ story touched you emotionally, then you’ll likely find this new story equally captivating. Watts expresses this on Twitter by saying: “If you were moved by Elisabeth Moss’ narrative, you’re likely to find this one just as compelling.

Experience the intense, raw-edged howl of the Wolf Man, skillfully portrayed by Leigh Whannell. His work creates a tempest of sorrow and ferocity, mirroring the mysterious elegance of The Invisible Man (2020). If you found that film impactful, be prepared for Wolf Man to leave an equally profound impression on you.

Andriew J. Salazar from Discussing Film appears to console fans worried about the appearance of the Wolf Man’s monster in the upcoming remake, expressing his excitement and describing it as “very entertaining.

Leigh Whannell’s film “The Wolf Man” offers an exhilarating, delightfully entertaining twist on traditional werewolf movies. This minimalistic narrative effectively explores the theme of generational guilt. The design of the ‘cursed’ Wolf Man is particularly impressive and suits the screen well. It stands distinctly yet harmoniously alongside “The Invisible Man.

Individuals from X account Nerds Engage generally enjoy the movie, yet they point out certain areas that needed more refinement. They give the film a score of 7.5 out of 10. In their opinion:

This film offers some excellent fright moments, skillful application of practical effects, yet it’s marred by occasionally clumsy CGI. The narrative and acting are captivating, keeping you engaged throughout. There were a few scenes that could have been trimmed down, but overall, the pacing was well-managed. I’m looking forward to rewatching it with a large audience, giving it a 7.5 out of 10.

The film left Rachel Leishman of The Mary Sue on the very brink of excitement, so much so that she tucked herself into her chair to shield her feet. In her own words:

According to Rachel Leishman,…)
“I was so tense watching the movie that I had to curl up in my seat to protect my feet from any unexpected jolts.

The “Wolf Man” film will surely keep you shivering at night! I watched it with my feet elevated, petrified of what might sneak up on me. It was an exhilarating suspense from start to end. I’m smitten by Christopher Abbott’s performance!

The Twitter user lizziesjuuls concurs wholeheartedly, extolling various aspects of the production such as the acting, makeup, and terrifying moments that caused them to shield their eyes repeatedly. In simpler terms, they express satisfaction with everything from the performances to the special effects, finding the fear-inducing scenes particularly effective.

The WOLF MAN character is both terrifying and endearing. It’s been a while since I’ve had such intense jumpscares from a horror movie! The prosthetics are mind-blowing, the acting is superb, but what really lingers is the number of times I had to shut my eyes due to fear or revulsion when watching it.

As a follower, I’m excitedly looking forward to a deeply immersive cinema journey, given that early responses have highlighted the unsettling body horror and gruesome transformation of Christopher Abbott’s character. If you’re eager to witness this chilling tale on the big screen, there’s not much longer to wait – the premiere of Wolf Man is just around the corner, set for Friday, January 17th.

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2025-01-07 19:07