If you haven’t noticed, it’s a great time to be a horror fan.
Since the unofficial “Horror Renaissance” of the 2010s fueled by studios like A24 and Blumhouse, lovers of the genre have been feasting on a wave of films that all tap into the nostalgia of traditional horror while redefining the essence of what horror truly is. Fan favorites like It Follows (2015), and Hereditary (2018) emphasize atmospheric dread and the supernatural over cheap jump scares, while others like Get Out (2017), The Lighthouse (2019) are ridden with psychological layers and cultural commentary. And these all laid the groundwork for the resurgence of hits like Werewolves.
The film was released in theaters nationwide on Dec. 6 and features a star-studded cast led by Frank Grillo (Captain America: The Winter Soldier, The Purge: Anarchy) and supported by director Steven C. Miller.
Dr. Wesley Marshall (Grillo) is a scientist and ex-soldier determined to protect those he loves. On the night of the second supermoon set to trigger a werewolf gene in millions of people worldwide, Wesley is prepared to take down all primal forces to save his family and a world on the brink of collapse. The night leads to what feels like a never-ending wave of anxiety and tension elevated by well-developed characters and an emotional story. Werewolves is an action-horror film that breathes new life into the classic werewolf legend with the help of some standout practical effects and a memorable story.
Grillo is also joined by a solid cast, including Katrina Law, Ilfenesh Hadera, and Lou Diamond Phillips.
We’re no stranger to Grillo’s trademark action-hero grit since his roles in Captain America: The Winter Soldier, The Purge: Election Year, and The Grey (2012). His commanding performance in Werewolves anchors the film, giving fans a familiar taste of his usual chaotic energy.
Frank Grillo takes center stage as Dr. Marshall, delivering a nuanced performance that balances action-hero grit with emotional depth. Known for his roles in films like Captain America: The Winter Soldier and The Purge: Election Year, Grillo brings a commanding presence that anchors the film’s intense energy. Supporting cast, including Lou Diamond Phillips (Stand and Deliver, Young Guns) and Katrina Law (NCIS, Hawaii Five-0) shine as Dr. Marshall’s scientific allies as the horror unfolds. Ilfenesh Hadera (Godfather of Harlem) brings an emotionally raw performance portraying a struggling family in desperate need of survival.
2024 has been a pretty successful year for horror movies but less than a week after its release, Werewolves has sparked mixed reviews. Despite the lukewarm reception from critics, the film succeeds in combining psychological and supernatural horror with practical effects that are increasingly rare in today’s CGI-heavy. It’s refreshing to see a filmmaker taking creative risks, all while staying committed to delivering authentic scares. Miller’s use of practical effects reminiscent of the golden era of 1980s horror builds on that authenticity throughout the film.
“And this is why I signed on to the movies. I read the script, it was great. And when (Miller) told me it was practical wolves, I’m like, I don’t know how you’re gonna do this. I have no idea, but I’m in for the ride. Yeah, let’s see. And I think [Alec Gillis,] who’s one of the best in the business at creating these costumes, he did an amazing job. And there’s very little CGI in the movie. It’s just in the transformation,” said Grillo. The film features designs by Alec Gillis and Tom Woodruff Jr., the duo behind the iconic visuals of the Alien and Predator franchises.
The respectful nod to traditional designs and gore, such as those seen in this film, creates a handcrafted aesthetic that will resonate with audiences who love modern horror but long for the authenticity of classic horror. And believe me when I say there is an ongoing appetite for these well-known stories. The film’s trailer has over 3 million views. Theatrical releases like this could mark another high point in the horror renaissance.
The popular werewolf lore—themes of transformation, repression, and primal instincts—fits comfortably within the film’s framework; but Werewolves isn’t just a callback to the past. While it doesn’t seek to reinvent the wheel, it doesn’t have to. Its strength lies in its ability to create real fear as it dives into the emotional stakes of survival.