WOLF

Wolf, directed by Nathalie Biancheri, is a film about identity and conformity. It uses the unusual and somewhat absurd premise of species dysphoria to explore deeper questions about selfhood and belonging. The story serves as a metaphor for gender identity, and the struggle some people face when suppressing who they are. Whether out of fear of not fitting in, or not being able to function in society.

The film is set in a psychiatric rehabilitation center that employs controversial treatment methods, including shaming, physical abuse, and enforced animalistic behavior. George MacKay delivers a powerful performance as Jacob, passionately portraying his character’s intense desire to be “normal”. In nearly every scene, we feel Jacob’s internal battle as he fights his instinctive urge to be what he believes he truly is…a wolf.

The film lazily introduces a predictable love story between Jacob and a girl known as “Wildcat”, played by Lily-Rose Depp. True to the premise, she believes she is a cat trapped in a human body. Now, I would be lying if I said I was not amused by the romance between a boy that thinks he’s a wolf and a girl that think she’s a cat. The film misses the opportunity to fully develop or capitalize on this strong comedic set up.

Ultimately, the film lacks depth and focus. The narrative drifts away from its central theme, with certain scenes feeling scattered and contributing little to its overall message. The story builds toward something meaningful but concludes rather abruptly, leaving its potential largely unrealized.

2021 Directed by Nathalie Biancheri

5.3/10