AllMovie

I remember first seeing The Wolf Man when I was 8 11 years ago, and being quite unnerved. Now it doesn't as much, but the atmosphere is still there and I can also appreciate the film for its other successful components. The film may look dated compared to what's going on today with technology to some, but I personally think for its time The Wolf Man is well made and when I watch it today I think the production values have their charm. The sets and costumes are highly atmospheric, and the make up is exceptional. The music is also chilling, the direction is fine, the script is intelligent and literate and the plot captivates. The performances are excellent too, Maria Ouspenskaya and Bela Lugosi are great, Claude Rains is superb and Lon Chaney Jnr gives a very sympathetic and believable performance in the title role. The only qualms that I have with this movie are its rather short length and one or two scenes in the middle that drag. Other than that, it is a very effective and atmospheric film. 8/10 Bethany Cox