[Tribeca ’21] ‘Werewolves Within’ review: Forgetting the source material

Werewolves Within has a tough hurdle to overcome. Traditionally video game movies are not very good. The comedy horror has to overcome audience preconceptions just so they will give it a chance. Director Josh Ruben makes the interesting choice to forgo the source material and concentrate on the film. Is its strong cast enough to convince people to watch it?

The small town of Beaverfield is divided by a proposed pipeline. A snowstorm traps it’s denizens in the local inn. At the same time a dangerous creature is on the loose and no one is safe. The early moments are spent introducing its eccentric characters. This includes Cecily (Milana Vayntrub), the mail person who seems to know everyone secrets, the Antifa fearing couple, and the rich queer couple that owns a spa. It is a funny opening that will immediately draw audiences in.

Werewolves Within has great comedic timing. The cast is effortlessly funny. Sam Richardson is a more aware Richard Splett and the chemistry between everyone is fantastic. There is a Clue-like energy to things. The film also has some great scares. This includes a neat transformation scene. An argument can be made that this is one of the bigger mysteries in Werewolves Within. While it is not necessary to include one to have a good werewolf movie, the best wolf tales are remembered for the same when some poor person becomes a bloodthirsty creature of the night.

Everything culminates in a satisfying ending. There are plenty of red herrings that will keep audiences guessing. The final battle is a fun one that brings everything full circle. Werewolves Within succeeds by not trying to be a video game movie and just being an entertaining one.

The Tribeca Film Festival takes place from June 9 – June 20