The Wolf Man Poster
Fantasy
Horror

The Wolf Man (1941) Review in 2025

8.5/10
Blockbuster

A classic horror film about a man who turns into a wolf during a full moon, set in a small English village.

70 minutes
English (Dubbed: )
Age group: 13-25, Interests: Horror, Fantasy
Director:
George Waggner
Budget: 1 million USD
Gross: 2 million USD

Family-Friendly Rating

Is this movie suitable for family viewing?

This movie is not suitable for young children due to its horror themes and violence.

CineReview Recommendation

This movie is a must-watch for horror fans and classic movie enthusiasts. It's a bit dated, but its influence can still be felt in modern horror movies.

Spoiler Alert!

Hover to reveal spoiler summary

The film tells the story of Lawrence Talbot, a man who returns to his family's estate in England after his brother's murder. He soon discovers that he is the victim of a werewolf attack and must navigate his newfound condition while trying to clear his name and protect his loved ones.

Review Details

story8.00/10

The story is engaging and well-paced, with a clear narrative that keeps the viewer invested in the characters' fate.

acting8.00/10

The acting is generally good, with Lon Chaney Jr. delivering a standout performance as Lawrence Talbot. Bela Lugosi is also excellent as the villainous Bela.

characters7.50/10

The characters are well-developed, but some of them feel a bit one-dimensional. Lawrence Talbot is a complex character, but his love interest, Gwen, feels more like a prop than a fully fleshed-out person.

direction8.50/10

The direction is excellent, with a clear vision for the film's tone and atmosphere. The use of shadows and lighting is particularly effective in creating a spooky atmosphere.

cinematography8.00/10

The cinematography is good, but not exceptional. The black-and-white photography is well-used to create a sense of mood and atmosphere, but some of the shots feel a bit static.

Pros and Cons

Pros

The Wolf Man is a classic horror film with a great story, well-developed characters, and excellent direction. The cinematography and acting are also noteworthy.

Cons

Some of the characters feel a bit one-dimensional, and the cinematography is not exceptional. However, these are minor complaints in an otherwise excellent film.

Notable Quotes

"Even a man who is pure of heart and says his prayers by night, may become a wolf when the wolf-bane blooms, and the autumn moon is bright."
"I am the Wolf Man!"

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