by Shane Conto, Staff Writer
What films are the ones that really stick with us? Are they the technically perfect but standard affair of so many historical dramas that get thrown our way? Are they the stock action films with *insert big named but aging actor* here? Honestly…sometimes we just need a bold new film that makes you think and is straight up weird. This fall we get treated to a new thriller with all the weird occurrences you can possibly want. Wolf.
What does writer/director Nathalie Biancheri offer up for audiences? This is the timeless tale of a young man who just wants to be a wolf. He meets and falls for a young woman who just wants to be a cat. What a love story? But then you have Paddy Considine who just hates the whole idea of young people wanting to be animals. There is not much to the overall plot besides a little young romance (but acting as an animal version) and a need to escape this prison-like facility controlled by Considine’s The Zookeeper. Throw in a whole collection of young folks being their best animals and you have quite the experience.
This all sounds a little silly, doesn’t it? But I assure you…Biancheri crafts some real tension in this new film. Technically sound, Biancheri’s narrative gives the cast plenty of opportunities to build up the tension. It is uncomfortable to watch the terrible abuse that The Zookeeper initiates as he unleashes rage and control upon them. There are a few moments that also capitalize on the animal versus animal dynamics. Our protagonist (the wolf) becomes a bit of a protector and when he gets going, things get scary. Along with the heightening tensions, the film also delivers some meaningful themes of identity and control. The metaphors might be a tad obvious, but the film still wows with its boldness. Narratively shallow and maybe a bit anticlimactic, Wolf still offers up a lot.
But what is the real crowning achievement? This committed cast. George Mackay is riding high on his 1917 breakout performance and is showing his range. He has another film out this year as a reserve and passionate British government man but here he is something else. Mackay’s ability to embody this animalistic rage and drive is so compelling. It is hard to look away when his animal instincts kick into gear. Mackay also has a strange yet magnetic connection to his fellow lead, Lily-Rose Depp. This animalistic connection they develop is tangible. You will probably feel odd watching these two acting like animals that are into each other…but their performances are just so committed. Then you have Considine. Cold, calculating, and overall, just sinister, his presence is so uncomfortable. The way he physically and emotionally abuses these young people is deplorable making for a great villain for this arthouse drama.
So…is this one weird enough for you? Wolf packs in plenty of potential and tension, giving enough to sink your teeth (or fangs) into. Biancheri shows that they will be a creative force into the future. This film left me wanting to see what else she will come up with. Mackay is a star performer, and this is just the kind of bold role that will let him shine. This one might not all come together but it certainly is worth the experience.
Grade: B
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