Werewolves

Title: Werewolves Within
Release Year: 2021
Director: Josh Ruben
Genre: Comedy, Horror, Mystery
Runtime: 97 minutes
Rating: 3.5/5

Cast:

Actor	Role
Sam Richardson	Finn Wheeler
Milana Vayntrub	Cecily Moore
George Basil	Marcus
Sarah Burns	Gwen
Michael Chernus	Pete
Catherine Curtin	Jeanine Sherman
Wayne Duvall	Sam Parker
Harvey Guillén	Joaquim Wolfson
Michaela Watkins	Trisha Anderton

Introduction

Werewolves Within, directed by Josh Ruben, is a quirky blend of horror, comedy, and mystery, inspired by Ubisoft’s video game of the same name. Released in 2021, the film delivers a unique whodunit experience with a supernatural twist. Unlike your typical werewolf story, it injects humor into suspenseful situations and keeps audiences guessing about the culprit until the very end. With a stellar ensemble cast and witty dialogue, the movie strikes a balance between scares and laughs, making it an unconventional yet entertaining addition to the genre.

Spoiler-Free Synopsis

The story unfolds in the small, snow-covered town of Beaverfield, where the arrival of new forest ranger Finn Wheeler coincides with a mysterious series of events. After a violent storm leaves the town without power, the locals discover a gruesome murder and suspect that a werewolf might be lurking among them. Trapped in a lodge, the quirky residents are forced to confront their paranoia and prejudices while Finn and mail carrier Cecily Moore try to uncover the truth. The film keeps the suspense alive by teasing the audience with various red herrings, making the eventual revelation all the more surprising.

Story and Themes

Werewolves Within explores themes of community, trust, and human nature in the face of fear. At its heart, the movie is a satire on societal divisions and how people often let suspicion and bias dictate their actions. The plot cleverly uses the werewolf as a metaphor for the hidden, darker sides of human behavior.

The narrative structure borrows heavily from classic murder mysteries, with each character having a motive and a secret. The film’s humor comes from its sharp observations about human nature, delivered through snappy dialogues and absurd situations. Although it leans into its comedic aspects, it never loses sight of its horror roots, maintaining a tense atmosphere throughout.

Direction and Vision

Josh Ruben brings a fresh perspective to the horror-comedy genre with Werewolves Within. Known for his work in comedy, Ruben masterfully combines his knack for humor with the suspense of a murder mystery. His direction ensures that the tone shifts seamlessly between lighthearted moments and chilling sequences, keeping the audience engaged.

Ruben also excels at creating a claustrophobic yet dynamic setting. The snow-covered landscapes and the cozy yet eerie lodge amplify the tension, serving as a perfect backdrop for the unfolding drama. By focusing on character interactions and slow-burn suspense rather than relying solely on jump scares, he crafts a film that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining.

Performances

The cast of Werewolves Within delivers uniformly strong performances, with each actor bringing their quirky characters to life.

• Sam Richardson shines as Finn Wheeler, portraying the good-natured ranger with warmth and relatability. His comedic timing and earnest demeanor make him the heart of the film.
• Milana Vayntrub is equally impressive as Cecily Moore, bringing charm and energy to her role as the eccentric mail carrier. Her chemistry with Richardson is a highlight, adding a touch of romance to the story.
• The supporting cast, including Sarah Burns, George Basil, and Michaela Watkins, excels in their respective roles, creating a colorful ensemble of townsfolk. Each character is distinct, contributing to the film’s humor and intrigue.

The actors’ ability to balance comedy and suspense ensures that the film’s tonal shifts feel natural, enhancing its overall impact.

Cinematography and Visuals

The cinematography by Matthew Wise plays a significant role in establishing the film’s atmosphere. The snowy landscapes of Beaverfield are beautifully captured, creating a sense of isolation that heightens the tension. The interior shots of the lodge are equally effective, using warm lighting to contrast the cold exteriors while subtly hinting at the underlying unease among the characters.

The werewolf’s design is kept deliberately ambiguous, adding to the mystery and allowing viewers to imagine the threat rather than rely on explicit visuals. This minimalist approach works well, focusing the audience’s attention on the characters and their dynamics.

Music and Sound Design

The film’s score, composed by Anna Drubich, complements its dual tones of horror and comedy. The music alternates between eerie, suspenseful melodies during tense moments and upbeat, playful tunes during lighter scenes. This dynamic score enhances the film’s pacing, keeping viewers engaged throughout.

Sound design plays a crucial role in creating suspense, with subtle audio cues and environmental sounds adding to the eerie atmosphere. From creaking floorboards to distant howls, every sound is meticulously crafted to immerse the audience in the story.

Production Journey and Behind-the-Scenes

Werewolves Within marks one of the few successful video game adaptations in recent years, thanks to its innovative approach. Instead of trying to replicate the game’s mechanics, the filmmakers used its premise as a foundation for a fresh, standalone story.

The script, penned by Mishna Wolff, cleverly weaves social commentary into a comedic horror narrative. The decision to shoot in a remote location adds authenticity to the setting, while the practical effects and minimalist CGI keep the focus on the characters rather than the creature.

Box Office Performance

Despite being a modest production, Werewolves Within received positive reviews and performed reasonably well at the box office. It earned approximately $937,000 worldwide, reflecting its niche appeal. The film’s success was primarily driven by word-of-mouth and critical acclaim, highlighting its charm and originality.

Critical Reception

Werewolves Within was well-received by critics, earning a 86% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and praise for its clever writing and ensemble performances. Reviewers appreciated its blend of humor and suspense, with many calling it a refreshing take on the werewolf genre. The film was lauded for its witty script, strong performances, and ability to balance comedy with horror.

Audience Reactions and Social Media Buzz

Audiences embraced Werewolves Within for its unique premise and engaging characters. Fans took to social media to share their favorite moments and speculate about the werewolf’s identity, sparking lively discussions. The film’s humor and relatable themes resonated with viewers, making it a cult favorite among horror-comedy enthusiasts.

Fun Facts and Trivia

• Werewolves Within is inspired by Ubisoft’s 2016 VR game of the same name, which involves players trying to deduce the identity of a hidden werewolf.
• The film was shot in the Catskills, New York, over a span of 23 days.
• Director Josh Ruben cited films like Hot Fuzz and Clue as inspirations for the film’s tone and style.
• The movie subtly references various werewolf myths, adding depth for genre fans.

Comparison and Cultural Impact

Werewolves Within stands out in the crowded horror-comedy genre for its clever writing and strong performances. It can be compared to films like Hot Fuzz and The Cabin in the Woods, which similarly blend humor with suspense. By addressing contemporary issues like community division and trust, the film offers more than just scares and laughs, leaving a lasting impression.

Conclusion and Recommendation

Werewolves Within is a delightful blend of comedy, horror, and mystery that offers a fresh take on the werewolf genre. Its witty script, engaging performances, and unique premise make it a must-watch for fans of unconventional horror. While it may not cater to those seeking traditional scares, its charm and humor ensure an enjoyable experience. Highly recommended for viewers looking for a clever and entertaining film that keeps them guessing until the end.