Leigh Whannell’s ‘Wolf Man’ Gets a 55% Rotten Tomatoes Score

The wolf has come out to play, and some horror fans are not interested. However, others have found a deeper meaning to Leigh Whannell’s recently released Wolf Man, a reimagining of a Universal monster classic. While Whannell had already prepared himself for criticism and hate of his wolf-transformation film, the film is proving to be extremely divisive among horror fans.

Sitting at 55% on the Tomatometer and 65% on the Popcornmeter, it seems that the Universal Pictures werewolf flick has divided fans and critics alike. As of right now, Wolf Man might be another example of how flashy advertising, unique screenings, and stunning practical effects can only take a story so far in the hearts of audiences.

Some reviews criticize the lackluster story, while others praise the visual effects and slow burn of Wolf Man. Well, everyone knows that a film will never please every audience member, but it seems like fans overall expected more from The Invisible Man director. The Universal monster film has already earned $1.4 million from previews at the box office, but will Wolf Man have staying power? It might be too hard to tell at this point, but the audience reactions thus far may not bode well for its chances.

What Are Audiences Saying About ‘Wolf Man’?

Fans are either appreciating Whannell’s monster film for how it deviates from expectations or, on the flip side, condemning it for taking risks without the substance to back them up.

“Thoroughly enjoyed Whannell’s Wolf Man. It’s quite solid. Whannell makes some effective decisions story wise here by making it over the course of one night in a secluded location. I loved how the creature was handled, showing things from his perspective AS THE CHANGE IS GRADUALLY HAPPENING. Really cool stuff.

Fantastic performance by Chris Abbott too, with a hard focus on character work, especially the father/daughter relationship. Huge The Fly vibes as well (Cronenberg).” – Lee McCoy

“slight pacing & writing issues but besides that overall a decent remake/retelling. I already know this is going to need a rewatch. leigh whannell I knew you wouldn’t disappoint me in some way!!! christopher abbotts physical transformation was quite impressive along with his performance. some effective scares & unique camerawork here. i especially loved the transformation sequences, gnarly body horror, gore & insane practical effects. julia garner’s scream is a star player 🐺” – joe

“Delivers on some grotesque body horror & chilling imagery of seeing your loved one turn monster. I enjoyed the unique spin on a werewolf but am walking out a little underwhelmed. The story feels flat, with its themes halfbaked. A collection of cool scenes w/ no closure.” – Cris Parker

While the appreciation for the practical effects is nearly unanimous, well-done gore is not enough to make a great movie. Some audience members can’t see past what the film lacks in story and visuals just because of the stellar effects.

“Some great tension here, but man a lot of misused time and slowing down to explain the allegory that was clear as day from the first 10 minutes of the movie multiple times.” – Amanda the Jedi

“Oh you can just smell the stench of “This was released in January” all over this” – MarMar

And how good can a movie be if you can’t see what’s happening on screen?

“Yet another poorly lit horror movie. I thought werewolves liked the full moon, why can’t I see anything?” – Cody

While critics and audiences are divided thus far, you can find out if the monster flick lives up to expectations in theaters right now. The cast of Wolf Man includes Christopher Abbott, Julia Garner, Matilda Firth, Sam Jaeger, Benedict Hardie, Ben Prendergast, Zac Chandler, Beatriz Romilly, and Milo Cawthorne. Leigh Whannell, who previously helmed Upgrade and The Invisible Man, directed Wolf Man based on a script by himself and Corbett Tuck.

Wolf Man is a reboot of the classic Universal Monsters movie The Wolfman. Christopher Abbott stars in the lead role and is helmed by The Invisible Man director Leigh Whannell. The film follows the same premise as the original and the 2010 reboot, focusing on a man who becomes a werewolf after falling victim to an ancient curse.