The Wolfman (2010)
Joe Johnston’s remake of the 1941 Universal classic The Wolfman marks another step in Universal’s abortive attempt to revivify its old monster movies for a new generation. The film received generally negative reviews, many citing the obvious plot holes and the evident difficulties that faced Johnston in keeping to budget. If you look past some of that background knowledge though and accept The Wolfman as a remake of a somewhat schlocky (but now classic) monster movie, it becomes a lot more interesting.
Benicio Del Toro is Lawrence Talbot, a well-known actor who returns home to Blackmoor following the apparent murder of his brother. While there, meets his father (a scene-chewing Anthony Hopkins), who has more than a few bones to pick with his recalcitrant boy, and his brother’s fiancee Gwen (Emily Blunt), with whom he shares an immediate rapport. Of course, werewolves are suspected in the death of the other Talbot, and before long Larry is subject to the curse.
The Wolfman is simply a better film than it’s made out to be. There are some excellent set pieces – including one scene where an apparently insane Larry begs to be freed before he transforms into a werewolf – and some of the best ham acting on display since Francis Ford Coppola’s version of Dracula. It’s a wild, schlocky adventure, entirely worthy of a Universal B-picture.
Published: Mar 22, 2015 11:53 pm