As a seasoned cinephile who’s spent more time in darkened theaters than most people have in their own homes, I must say that “Out Come the Wolves” is a cinematic rollercoaster that leaves you both exhilarated and bewildered. The movie starts off with a bang, MacDonald’s visual cues are nothing short of impressive, creating an atmosphere that’s as dense and foreboding as the woods themselves.
Titled “E emergence of Wolves“, this story immerses viewers in a raw, intense battle between man and nature as a journalist along with his fiancée embark on a wilderness hunting trip with her friend. However, the narrative’s logic takes a hit, as what starts as a promising setup devolves into predictable tropes. The film effectively uses striking cinematography, swift editing, and an ominous soundtrack to generate suspense, but the plot’s shortcomings become apparent. Characters initially portrayed with convincing backstories find themselves succumbing to typical genre clichés, transforming supposedly intelligent individuals into easy prey. The film’s intended thought-provoking layers disappoint when rationality is discarded in favor of senseless actions.
As a movie enthusiast, I, much like Joris Jarsky’s character Kyle, venture deep into the woods on an ATV, en route to a secluded cabin. Upon my arrival, I’m greeted by Sophie, my long-standing friend and skilled hunter, who stands at the door. It turns out she was taken aback to find me here alone, as I was expected with my girlfriend. Her partner, Nolan – a city dweller like Damon Runyan’s character – isn’t too thrilled about this unexpected change in plans.
Sophie and Kyle chuckle heartily as Nolan struggles to concentrate on writing, feeling a growing sense of envy. The hunting trip was organized in preparation for his upcoming article about stepping out of one’s comfort zone. As a carnivore, Nolan yearns for the authentic experience of procuring his own food. After all, bacon doesn’t simply materialize on your plate.
Kyle’s taken aback to discover Sophie has become a vegan, effectively ending her hunting days. This leaves Kyle with no choice but to take Nolan on the deer hunt instead. However, teaching Nolan proves to be a challenge as he struggles with accuracy using both arrows and guns. He’s never been fond of Nolan and secretly yearns for Sophie. He holds out hope that they’ll get along, but his optimism is unfounded. The following morning, Kyle and Nolan depart the cabin, leaving Sophie behind. Their journey ahead promises to challenge them all in unexpected ways.
Strong Style Builds Tension Until It All Falls Apart
Adam MacDonald, who has acted in shows like “Rookie Blue” and “Being Erica,” and now directs films such as “Backcountry” and “Slasher,” starts off aggressively with visually striking elements. His first shot is of an overturned, dense forest gradually revealing itself, immediately capturing your focus. The almost overwhelming roar of ATV engines fills the screen next. Following in the footsteps of Michael Bay, MacDonald employs 360-degree panoramic shots that circle the characters as they gather at the cabin. In a chilling opening sequence, he skillfully portrays a seemingly ordinary environment with an eerie atmosphere.
Inside the cabin, this approach persists, with numerous close-ups capturing Nolan’s expressions as he witnesses Kyle and Sophie’s intimate bond. The narrative then shifts to Kyle receiving the same medication, which is met with Sophie’s obvious affection towards a man she believes unworthy. McDonald skillfully films the growing tension in the confined space, making the scenes uncomfortable when the dialogue appears too direct or forced. Unfortunately, this pattern worsens as the second act’s brutality intensifies.
Logic Flies Out the Window
The movie “Out Come the Wolves” both thrills and deteriorates simultaneously, which is disappointing given its potential for greatness. Unfortunately, the storyline doesn’t fully deliver as characters Kyle and Nolan experience a predictable hunt, their contrasting personalities clashing particularly at a crucial juncture. Each individual adheres to their established traits. If only they hadn’t collectively succumbed to foolishness at the same time, this might not have been such a letdown. The film falls back on the well-worn trope of ‘dumb people in the woods’, leading the plotline astray.
In this scenario, Kyle and Nolan are portrayed as highly equipped individuals. However, this reviewer finds it hard to accept that Nolan stumbles with his weapons. Given that Kyle is depicted as an expert hunter who navigates the terrain skillfully, one might expect similar precision from him too. Yet, here’s a question: How can someone who consistently hits targets be so clumsy when it comes to firing in critical moments? The narrative seems to suggest that fear triggers catastrophic incompetence in combat situations. However, this idea falls flat when we consider the characters’ actions under life-threatening circumstances. They carry firearms, bows, and knives. Wolves are known for their ferocity, but they aren’t impervious to bullets or arrows. The portrayal of these men seems unrealistic considering the danger they face.
Out Come the Wolves Is Stylish Nonsense
Sophie leaving the bench to join the game seems odd. Her ending up in the woods is puzzling and hard to explain without spoiling it. However, she’s supposed to be a skilled marksman and motorcyclist, like Kyle. It’s surprising that she struggles against wolves, who aren’t known for their strategic intelligence. In fact, the wolves act unusually by ignoring more vulnerable prey to focus on the cast members. This behavior is illogical and uncharacteristic of wolves.
MacDonald skillfully injects excitement into a script that follows a familiar pattern, making it entertaining despite its predictability. Out Come the Wolves offers moments of thrill, but misses out on a chance to delve deeper into its initial themes about human nature and the superficial aspects of male rivalry. Only by suspending our disbelief can we accept this story’s narrative.
“Out Come the Wolves” is a joint production by December Films and High Park Entertainment. It will be simultaneously released in theaters and on video-on-demand (VOD) platforms, including IFC Films and Shudder. You can stream it on various digital platforms such as Apple TV, YouTube, FandangoNow, or Amazon Prime Video via the link provided below:
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2024-09-01 02:07