Award wind composer Michael Giacchino effortlessly turns his hand again to directing with and almost flawless TV special.
Werewolf by Night is debatably the first true comic feeling Marvel Studio production since 70s TV's Spider-Man or Blade. However, the Universal classic horror, black and white stylistic choice, given the colourful comic book seems unnecessary, whether to tone down the blood carnage or to give it a gothic vibe- it feels a little pretentious. Especially the use of red colour throughout; echoing Schindler's List (1993) and the Wizard of Oz (1993) in the closing. This aside; the simmering moral subtext, food for thought writing from Heather Quinn & Peter Cameron and Giacchino's visual flair and eye for details delivers a must see horror monster fantasy.
The cast are great, with some fine stunt work Laura Donnelly (who has an uncanny resemblance to Krysten Ritter's Jessica Jones) as Elsa Bloodstone has plenty of screen presence. Jack Russell / Werewolf by Night: played by Gael García Bernal is likeable fantastic in both forms along side fan favourite Man-Thing, brought to life with some impressive special effects. Al Hamacher is humorous as servant Billy Swan. The memorable supporting cast of monster hunters are great, namely Kirk R. Thatcher as Jovan, Leonardo Nam as Liorn, and Daniel J. Watts as Barasso. Notable is striking and imposing Eugenie Bondurant as Azarel. But Harriet Sansom Harris steals the show as commanding Verussa Bloodstone.
With the short run time unfortunately the first act House on Haunted Hill (1959), 1985's Clue-like mystery isn't played out a little longer. This is one Marvel outing where a longer run time would be have been most welcomed. From great FX including creepy animated dead Ulysses Bloodstone (voiced by Richard Dixon) to the action setups and showdowns; helmed by Giacchino Werewolf by Night is wonderfully executed. Highly recommended.
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