The Beast Within” Review: Enthralling Exploration of Human Shadows

Key Takeaways:

– “The Beast Within” is an intriguing werewolf movie that explores darker aspects of humanity.
– Stellar performances by Caoillinn Springall and Kit Harington add depth to the narrative.
– The film creatively utilizes the English countryside as an independent character.
– While there are some predictable plotpoints and less-than-stellar CGI moments, the film overall offers a satisfying experience.

There's just something inexplicably enchanting about a good werewolf movie. Perhaps it's the representation of humanity's darker side embodied in the physical beast that strikes a chord. Well, “The Beast Within” hits this note perfectly. It's a tale about an isolated family living on an English countryside compound with a dark secret, and its effects are far-reaching. In essence, it mirrors the struggle of alcoholism, with a father figure transforming into a monstrous form at night. But how successful is this movie in creating a riveting narrative? The simple answer: impressively so.

Let's talk about the characters first. Willow, played by the talented Caoillinn Springall, is a 10-year-old girl with breathing problems who carries her oxygen tank wherever she goes. She's a curious soul intrigued by her family's secret activities. Yes, her naivety (or should we say curiosity) does lead to a frustrating turn of events sometimes. But remember, folks, ignorance is not always bliss! Ashleigh Cummings lends life to the character of Imogen, the mother, whose broken demeanor lays bare her struggle to cope with life's unfortunate circumstances.

But the haunting figure of Noah, Willow's father, stands out in the crowd. Kit Harington incredibly portrays a character that oscillates between being an abusive monster and a caring parent. This paradoxical portrayal is genuinely unnerving, and let's admit it, Harington has indeed outdone his previous roles. And for all the GoT fans out there, courtesy of James Cosmo's minor appearance as Imogen's father, you can enjoy a mini reunion!

A special mention to the English countryside: it's not just a background setting in “The Beast Within.” It actually takes center stage, becoming a character in its own right — menacing and mysterious, much like the beast itself. While some characters do make questionable decisions that seem driven by plot requirements, Willow's stubborn determination to uncover the truth makes up for it.

However, the film is not without its flaws. The big reveal about the werewolf doesn't quite meet expectations. Despite the filmmakers' clever decision to keep the beast hidden for most of the film, its final explicit display lacks the impact it aims for. Conversely, the CGI could have been better handled. Despite the minor issues with the last act and an anticipated twist, this werewolf movie is a ride worth taking.

“The Beast Within” is currently being showcased at the Fantasia Film Festival, but you can catch it at your nearest theatres on July 26th, 2024.

To sum up — despite certain minor shortcomings, “The Beast Within” is an attractive amalgamation of stellar performances, intriguing character development and thought-provoking social parallels. While the dark layers of humanity hinted through the metaphor of the werewolf might not be revolutionizing cinema, they surely offer an intriguing viewing experience. So, mark your calendars for this exciting werewolf mystery!