Classic 30s horror film remake dubbed ‘tense and claustrophobic’ divides critics
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To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video. Up Next. A new adaptation of a classic 1930s horror film has divided fans following its release. Directed by Saw and Insidious legend Leigh Whannell, Wolf Man is his take on the 1931 Universal Monsters flick.
The modern retelling stars Christopher Abbott, Julia Garner, and Matilda Firth as a family preyed upon by a mysterious beast in a remote mountain range. After his long-missing father is declared legally dead, Blake Lovett (Abbott) travels to his old hometown with his wife Charlotte (Garner) and daughter Ginger (Firth).
![[Julia Garner as Charlotte, Christopher Abbott as Blake, and Matilda Frith as Ginger in Wolf Man. They are all standing in a dark forest with Blake and Charlotte attempting to calm Ginger]](https://metro.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/SEI_235866652-05b4.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&w=646)
While driving to the farmhouse, they are attacked by a mysterious creature that scratches Blake in the process. They seek shelter in Blake’s childhood home, but they soon begin to suspect the danger isn’t just prowling outside when Blake begins to experience a series of strange symptoms.
![[Undated film still from Wolf Man. Pictured: Matilda Firth as Ginger. See PA Feature SHOWBIZ Film Reviews. WARNING: This picture must only be used to accompany PA Feature SHOWBIZ Film Reviews. PA Photo. Picture credit should read: Universal Studios/Nicola Dove. All Rights Reserved. NOTE TO EDITORS: This picture must only be used to accompany PA Feature SHOWBIZ Film Reviews.]](https://metro.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/SEI_235819055-061e.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&w=646)
Despite his success with the 2020 Universal Monster reboot The Invisible Man, Wolf Man has divided critics following its theatrical release on Friday. The werewolf film has scored a 52% rating with critics on Rotten Tomatoes, and a marginally better 56% on the Popcornmeter.
In their review, Little White Lies wrote: ‘This is not your typical gothic werewolf tale, then, but a dour domestic drama in wolf’s clothing.’. ABC News said: ‘Director Leigh Whannell knocked it out of the park with his riveting 2020 reboot of Invisible Man, but his take on Wolf Man is a limp, lazy excuse for thought-provoking horror. Worse, this long night’s journey into day is no fun at all.’.
