Werewolves, creatures of myth and legend, have long fascinated filmmakers and audiences alike with their primal ferocity and the stories of transformation and identity that surround them. The 2010s offered a diverse array of werewolf movies, each bringing a unique vision to this enduring myth. From the dark and atmospheric to the humorous and satirical, these films explore a wide spectrum of styles and tones, reflecting the versatility and enduring appeal of the werewolf legend. Join us as we journey through moonlit forests and shadowy realms, where the line between human and beast blurs. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the ten best werewolf films of the 2010s.
10. The Wolfman – Joe Johnston (2010)
Set in the dimly lit, cobblestoned streets of the late 19th century, “Wolfman” tells the tale of Lawrence Talbot, an actor who is drawn back to his ancestral homeland in England following the strange vanishing of his brother. Upon his arrival, he is confronted with a terrifying family legacy and finds himself in a village that is in the grips of fear, tormented by a merciless and unknown creature. The narrative gains further complexity and depth as Talbot’s investigation propels him into a shadowy and perilous world, where he uncovers an ancient curse that dramatically alters his existence, reshaping him in ways far beyond his wildest imaginings.
Joe Johnston’s “Wolfman” reinterprets the iconic werewolf narrative, using elements of Gothic horror with an insightful journey into family secrets and the quest for personal identity. The film’s visual style, with its atmospheric setting and carefully crafted period costumes, immerses the audience in a thoroughly captivating experience. The storyline contrasts elements of terror and intense human drama, ensuring that the movie goes beyond mere frights to also include the internal battles faced by its main character. Also, the commitment to practical effects and makeup artistry in the transformation sequences is a respectful nod to the werewolf films of the past, giving the scenes a raw and tangible realism.
9. WolfCop – Lowell Dean (2014)
“WolfCop”, directed by Lowell Dean, presents the intriguing character of Lou Garou, an alcoholic small-town cop who finds himself unexpectedly transforming into a werewolf. This startling transformation is triggered when he begins investigating a series of strange, occult events troubling the town, which eventually leads him to the heart of a far-reaching and sinister conspiracy. Embracing the formidable powers and abilities that come with his new werewolf identity, Lou Garou adopts the mantle of a unique, somewhat unorthodox crime-fighting force, emerging as a furry vigilante within the community.
This film stands out with its witty and light-hearted approach to the werewolf genre, blending elements of comedy and high-octane action. Lowell Dean’s direction ensures that “WolfCop” maintains a self-aware and comedic tone, offering viewers an amusing and novel spin on the traditional werewolf mythology. The special effects, particularly the transformation scenes, are executed with skill and creativity, enhancing the overall allure of the movie. “WolfCop” stands as a shining example of the werewolf genre’s adaptability, demonstrating its ability to combine comedic and satirical elements with edge-of-the-seat action, resulting in one of the best werewolf films of the 2010s.
8. Hotel Transylvania – Genndy Tartakovsky (2012)
In “Hotel Transylvania”, directed by Genndy Tartakovsky, the story takes place within the walls of a luxurious resort specifically designed for monsters, situated in a secluded area far removed from the hustle and bustle of human civilization. The hotel, under the management of the legendary Dracula, becomes the venue for an extraordinary celebration in honor of his daughter Mavis’s 118th birthday, a milestone event attracting a diverse array of monsters, including a pack of werewolves. The storyline veers into unexpected territory when a human traveler accidentally discovers this hidden haven and develops romantic feelings for Mavis, which sets off a chain of both comedic and touching incidents.
This animated feature stands out with its fusion of lighthearted humor and genuine warmth. Under Tartakovsky’s direction, the film revitalizes classic monster characters, reimagining them in a manner that resonates with family audiences. The vibrant animation style is a visual delight, appealing to a wide-ranging audience spanning children to adults. Furthermore, the film’s depiction of the werewolf family, characterized by their endearing, chaotic energy and the relatable challenges they face as parents, introduces a delightful and humorous twist to traditional werewolf lore. “Hotel Transylvania” conveys significant themes of acceptance and the value of empathizing with those who are different.
7. Game of Werewolves – Juan Martínez Moreno (2011)
“Game of Werewolves”, directed by Juan Martínez Moreno, takes place in a picturesque and isolated Spanish village, steeped in antiquity and mystery. The central character, a writer grappling with professional challenges, returns to his ancestral home after many years of absence, only to become involved with an age-old curse involving werewolves that has haunted the village for generations. As the nights grow darker and the full moon looms overhead, he finds himself banding together with an assortment of villagers, bracing to face and survive the ferocious lycanthropic menace that has been a bane to the village for centuries. The narrative combines elements of terror with a sense of ancestral mystery, as the protagonist gradually peels back layers of the village’s shadowed history.
Moreno’s film emerges as a captivating entry in the werewolf film genre, mixing elements of horror, comedic relief, and nail-biting suspense. The film’s setting, in a small, secluded village, wrapped in the cloak of rural charm and mystery, significantly amplifies the tense and ominous atmosphere, intensifying each encounter with the werewolves. The film is particularly noteworthy for its use of practical effects and makeup artistry, which bring a palpable and hair-raising realism to the werewolf transformations. Successfully striking a delicate balance between spine-chilling scares and well-timed humor, “Game of Werewolves” solidifies its status as one of the best werewolf films of the 2010s.
6. When Animals Dream – Jonas Alexander Arnby (2014)
“When Animals Dream”, directed by Jonas Alexander Arnby, tells a mysterious tale taking place in the windswept and isolated boundaries of a remote Danish fishing village. At the heart of the story is Marie, a young woman who experiences a series of strange changes in her body, which serve as a catalyst for her to probe into her family’s deeply buried secrets. This quest sets her on a path of self-discovery, gradually unveiling the existence of a hereditary werewolf curse that has been shrouded in mystery. As Marie undergoes her transformation, the narrative explores the village’s complex reaction to her emerging identity, bringing together themes of personal evolution and the journey towards self-acceptance.
Jonas Alexander Arnby’s cinematic vision in “When Animals Dream” offers a reflective interpretation of the werewolf mythos, prioritizing the development of layered characters and a brooding atmosphere over conventional horror tropes. The film’s narrative is characterized by a gradual, suspenseful build-up, creating an atmosphere of impending doom and intrigue. The stunning cinematography is a feast for the eyes, capturing the stark, haunting beauty of the Danish coastline, which perfectly accentuates the film’s melancholic and introspective mood. “When Animals Dream” stands out as a profound exploration of identity and the sense of being an outsider, presenting a distinctive perspective on the werewolf legend.
5. The Cabin in the Woods – Drew Goddard (2011)
“The Cabin in the Woods”, directed by Drew Goddard, introduces a refreshing and unexpected twist to the horror genre, redefining its traditional boundaries. The narrative focuses around a group of college friends who, seeking a break from their routine, plan a leisurely retreat to a secluded cabin, only to become pawns in a bizarre and malevolent experiment. Amidst a series of horrors they are forced to face, werewolves emerge as key players in the unfolding events, adding a layer of primal terror to the ordeal. The film subverts standard horror tropes, combining sharp wit, spine-tingling scares, and a self-aware meta-fictional commentary that dissects the essence of the horror genre itself.
Drew Goddard’s directorial style in “The Cabin in the Woods” is a significant departure from conventional horror filmmaking, bringing a breath of fresh air to well-trodden themes. The film’s brilliantly crafted script, a collaborative effort with Joss Whedon, dismantles and reimagines genre norms, while also ensuring a rollercoaster of genuine suspense and fear. The strategic inclusion of werewolves, alongside a diverse array of supernatural entities, contributes to the film’s unpredictable feeling. This is not just one of the best werewolf films of the 2010s, but also a milestone of modern horror cinema, acclaimed for its inventive narrative and smart storytelling.
4. Valley of Shadows – Jonas Matzow Gulbrandsen (2017)
“Valley of Shadows”, directed by Jonas Matzow Gulbrandsen, is set against the haunting backdrop of a secluded Norwegian village, enshrouded by dense, foreboding forests. The narrative focuses on a young boy named Aslak, whose life takes a turn towards the mysterious as he embarks on a quest into the heart of the dark woods, seeking to unravel the mystery behind his brother’s bizarre disappearance. His journey is filled with local myth and ancient folklore, dominated by spine-chilling tales of a werewolf that is said to prowl the forest. As Aslak explores further into the wilderness, he finds himself confronting not only the legends that have haunted his village for generations but also grappling with his own developing fears and curiosities.
In “Valley of Shadows,” Gulbrandsen creates a film that is hauntingly beautiful in its portrayal of a world where reality merges with the fantastical. The film’s cinematography is a standout, capturing the eerie, ethereal beauty of the Norwegian wilderness, amplifying the film’s surreal and otherworldly ambiance. “Valley of Shadows” stands out thanks to its atmosphere and its gradual narrative build-up, prioritizing mood and character development over traditional horror elements. This film presents a distinctive interpretation of the werewolf legend, experienced through the eyes of a child whose innocence and imagination blurs the boundaries between what is real and what is born of legend and lore.
3. Late Phases – Adrián García Bogliano (2014)
“Late Phases”, directed by Adrián García Bogliano, takes plaec in the tranquil confines of a retirement community, a place where the film’s protagonist, Ambrose, a seasoned veteran blinded in combat, decides to settle. However, the serenity of his new surroundings is shattered when a series of savage attacks, attributed to a ferocious wild animal, sends shockwaves through the community. Ambrose grows increasingly convinced that these brutal incidents are the work of a werewolf. Utilizing his extensive combat training and adaptive strategies to overcome the limitations imposed by his blindness, he braces himself for a deadly confrontation with the creature. The film combines suspenseful elements, adrenaline-fueled action, and an exploration of personal conflict
In “Late Phases,” Bogliano presents a refreshingly original and respectful take on the werewolf genre, honoring its time-honored horror conventions while introducing innovative elements. The film is particularly notable for its in-depth character development, especially in the portrayal of Ambrose’s ingenious adaptability. The narrative tension is enhanced as the story progresses, leading to a climactic and intensely thrilling showdown. “Late Phases” is an exciting tale of bravery and persistence, illustrating the enduring strength of the human spirit in the face of otherworldly dangers, making it one of the best werewolf films of the 2010s.
2. What We Do in the Shadows – Taika Waititi, Jemaine Clement (2014)
In “What We Do in the Shadows”, directed by Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement, the film explores lives of a group of vampires who live in the vibrant city of Wellington, New Zealand. Adopting a mockumentary style, the film humorously chronicles their daily challenges, encompassing a wide range of activities from mundane household tasks to the more daunting aspect of adapting to modern society. Among their circle of supernatural acquaintances is a pack of werewolves, who give a humorous twist to the traditional werewolf archetype. The interactions between the vampires and werewolves, full of competitive rivalry and mutual misunderstanding, offer a lighthearted and satirical take on the dynamics of supernatural beings trying to coexist in the modern world.
The collaborative filmmaking of Waititi and Clement results in a film that stands as a delightful parody of the horror genre, taking a humorous jab at the myths and legends surrounding vampires and werewolves. The movie shines with its sharp, witty script and the spontaneous, improvisational humor delivered by its talented cast, providing viewers with a refreshingly amusing perspective on the everyday realities of supernatural entities. While the portrayal of werewolves plays a secondary role to that of the vampires, their depiction significantly enhances the overall allure and charm of the film. “What We Do in the Shadows” is celebrated due to its originality and successful fusion of comedy with supernatural elements.
1. Good Manners – Marco Dutra, Juliana Rojas (2017)
“Good Manners”, directed by Marco Dutra and Juliana Rojas, takes place in the urban landscape of São Paulo, Brazil. This compelling narrative centers around Clara, a solitary nurse with a compassionate heart, who is hired by Ana, a woman shrouded in mystery and affluence, to care for her unborn child. As Clara becomes more involved in Ana’s life, she uncovers disturbing and inexplicable secrets surrounding Ana’s pregnancy. The film unravels a supernatural tale involving werewolves, combining it with themes of love, unwavering loyalty, and social contrasts. The story progresses with unforeseen and intriguing twists, immersing the audience in an experience that combines horror and fantasy elements in a unique and way.
Marco Dutra and Juliana Rojas have created a film that is visually powerful and emotionally deep, ensuring its place as one of the best werewolf films of the 2010s. “Good Manners” stands out for its innovative narrative approach, blending the whimsical nature of fairy tales with incisive and relevant social observations. The film’s cinematography and thoughtful production design play pivotal roles in creating its atmospheric and enchanting quality. The depiction of werewolves in “Good Manners” becomes a deeply symbolic aspect that enhances the film’s exploration of maternal connections, societal disparities, and the complex nature of love and personal sacrifice.
Summary
To summarise, here are the ten best werewolf films of the 2010s:
- The Wolfman – Joe Johnston (2010)
- WolfCop – Lowell Dean (2014)
- Hotel Transylvania – Genndy Tartakovsky (2012)
- Game of Werewolves – Juan Martínez Moreno (2011)
- When Animals Dream – Jonas Alexander Arnby (2014)
- The Cabin in the Woods – Drew Goddard (2011)
- Valley of Shadows – Jonas Matzow Gulbrandsen (2017)
- Late Phases – Adrián García Bogliano (2014)
- What We Do in the Shadows – Taika Waititi, Jemaine Clement (2014)
- Good Manners – Marco Dutra, Juliana Rojas (2017)
