Werewolves is Howling with Action, Horror, and Nostalgia
by Justine Norton-Kertson
Werewolves (2024), directed by Steven C. Miller, offers a thrilling blend of action and horror that harkens back to the energetic spirit of 1990s genre films of my youth. In theaters as of today, December 6, the film's premise is immediately engaging: a supermoon triggers a genetic mutation, transforming those exposed to its light into ferocious werewolves, leading to global chaos. As a second supermoon looms, scientists Dr. Wesley Marshall (Frank Grillo) and Dr. Amy Chen (Katrina Law) race against time to prevent another catastrophe. With scientists at the helm, the film leans right into nerd horror. However, the focus becomes more about brawn than brain, steering the film more into action flick zone.
“a thrilling blend of action and horror that harkens back to the energetic spirit of 1990s genre films.”
One of the film's standout features is its commitment to practical effects, delivering werewolf transformations and creature designs that feel tangible and visceral. This practical approach enhances the film's authenticity and provides a nostalgic nod to classic creature features. Frank Grillo's performance as Dr. Marshall is compelling; he brings a rugged charisma to the role, effectively balancing the character's scientific intellect with action-hero bravado. Katrina Law complements him well, portraying Dr. Chen with a blend of determination and vulnerability.
However, the film is not without its shortcomings. Some character arcs and subplots, such as Dr. Chen's personal connections to the werewolf phenomenon, are introduced with potential but lack sufficient development, leaving certain narrative threads feeling underexplored. Additionally, while the action sequences are intense and well-executed, they occasionally overshadow deeper thematic elements that could have added more substance to the story and helped it lean further into the realm of nerd horror.
Despite these points, Werewolves succeeds in delivering a high-octane, entertaining experience with a stellar cast that even includes Lou Diamon Phillips as Dr. Aranda. Its fusion of action and horror, bolstered by strong practical effects and engaging performances, makes it a noteworthy addition to the werewolf genre. For fans seeking a film that combines the relentless energy of '90s action-horror with modern cinematic techniques, Werewolves is a thrilling ride worth taking.
