How the New Wolf Man Connects to the Past

Modern Monsters: The Dark Universe That’s Not Quite Here

Universal’s classic monster films have returned. Shrouded in mystery and modern thrills, the recently anticipated Wolf Man and The Invisible Man are standout entries. Directed by Leigh Whannell, these films offer a fresh take on beloved creatures. But don’t expect them to usher in a new age of connected stories. At least, not yet.

A Vision in Focus

Wolf Man makes its theatrical debut on Friday, January 17th. If you’re planning a rewatch of The Invisible Man, now streaming on Prime Video, don’t expect any plot revelations about the upcoming release. Enjoy it as a primer in Whannell’s unique cinematic style. As the mind behind both scripts, Whannell deftly co-pilots Wolf Man into modern horror. Speculation about Universal’s grand plan for a monster renaissance has surfaced. Yet, with these films, connections remain elusive — at least for now.

The Ghost of Universes Past

Back in 2014, whispers of a "Dark Universe" filled the air. Universal’s ambitious vision proposed uniting icons like Dracula and Frankenstein into one epic franchise. Dracula Untold and The Mummy were set to lead, boasting a star-studded lineup, including Tom Cruise and Johnny Depp. But failures plagued those early attempts. The specter of unrealized potential still haunts fans today.

In response, Universal pivoted, seeking self-contained films grounded in reality. The Invisible Man in 2020 marked this shift, followed by tales like Renfield and The Last Voyage of the Demeter. Next in line is Wolf Man, crafted by the successes of Whannell’s previous endeavors but standing alone. Some fans prefer this independence, while others mourn what might have been.

The Quiet Wilderness Beckons

In Wolf Man, meet the relocated family of three, embarking on an unsettling journey. Blake (played by Christopher Abbott) returns to his childhood home in Oregon after his father’s strange departure. Julia Garner stars as his supportive wife, and Matilda Firth as their perceptive daughter. The movie promises tension and transformation under the moon’s haunting glow.

This eerie endeavor begins on January 17th. Meanwhile, delve back into the shadows with The Invisible Man on Prime Video, where Whannell’s craft remains ever visible and thrilling.