Wolf Man offers a psychological twist on the classic monster story
Wolf Man is a new take on a classic story, with director Leigh Whannell opting for a more grounded, psychological approach to the legendary monster.
The film begins with a father, Grady (Sam Jaeger), taking his son, Blake (Zac Chandler), on what appears to be a routine hunting trip. However, Grady is a damaged and traumatized man, paranoid about the safety of his son and overly controlling.
Despite his overprotectiveness, Grady is determined to hunt down a strange creature he believes is lurking in the woods, framing the hunt as a protective measure for Blake, yet risking drawing them into generational trauma.
Years later, Blake has grown up (played by Christopher Abbot) and become a father himself, struggling with the emotional scars of his childhood. After Grady's death, Blake returns to his childhood home in Oregon with his family, hoping to heal past wounds.
Upon returning, however, they are met with an unsettling atmosphere. A car accident leads Blake to be infected with a wolf-like curse, depicted as a rabies-like disease that manifests in disturbing physical changes and heightened senses.
This transformation serves as a metaphor for Blake's inherited rage from Grady. As Blake becomes more animalistic, he ultimately confronts his father, resulting in a bloody battle that ends with Blake sacrificing himself to protect his family.
The film culminates in a tragic yet serene resolution as Charlotte and Ginger, Blake's family, are left to appreciate the beauty of the valley, a poignant reminder of Blake's childhood.
