By Geno McGahee
Certain horror films come out and receive a lot of hype. IT FOLLOWS is the current one that is getting the attention, but before that it was THE BABADOOK. They don’t always live up to the hype. Once again, THE BABADOOK is a good example and so I didn’t go in with any expectations as I sat to watch WOLFCOP. Obviously, just from the name, it’s not taking itself too seriously.
There aren’t that many werewolf comedy/horror hybrids. They usually fall on one side or the other. The only one of recent memory was BIG BAD WOLF, which was a very effective horror comedy. So, WOLFCOP does enter territory that is not often traveled and attempts to appease horror fans and comedy fans with a film that is unique to say the least. WOLFCOP may not be a great film but it is not one that you will forget any time soon.
Lou Garou (Leo Fafard) is a cop with a drinking problem. He has many problems and cannot do his job very well. His partner, Tina (Amy Matysio), looks out for him, but she can only do so much. She is very fed up with his antics and lack of responsibility. His best friend, Willie (Jonathan Cherry), looks out for him the best that he can, but Lou has his own ways and doesn’t want to change.
Garou falls victim to a secret cult and wakes up with a pentagram carved into his chest. He is confused and becomes even more confused when he transforms into a werewolf in a bar restroom. The transformation is gruesome. The wolf actually breaks through the skin and his prick even explodes. They really focused on the gore in this film and doing that aspect correctly. I was impressed by a lot of what they accomplished and it all looked like practical effects, which is the best way to do it.
The movie kicks into high gear when Wolfcop and Willie hit the road to respond to crime. Sadly, this doesn’t last very long. During a robbery of a convenience store, the shooter asks “who are you?” Wolfcop responds “the fuzz.” It was hilarious. He then breaks into a large meth lab and actually rips off a guy’s face, leading to another hilarious scene as the guy with no face just screams. You have to see it to appreciate it.
There’s a big showdown with the cult, which is nothing but fun. There are a couple surprises and the promise of a sequel at the end. According to IMDB, a sequel is set for 2016 and why not? This film has taken off like a rocket and has been received incredibly well. The people were ready for something silly and they got WOLFCOP.
WOLFCOP is awesome when the Wolfcop is on the screen. When he’s stirring things up, he is very amusing, but the build up to the first appearance, which lasts about an hour, drags. They had this idea and it was a good idea, but there should have been more focus on the script and the structure of the story. Wolfcop is such a lovable character that it’s easy to want to like the film and I did. If the entire film was like the last 30 minutes, it might have earned a 10/10, but it took some time to get to the good stuff.
I am very optimistic about the sequel to WOLFCOP. Despite its problems early on, the movie found its footing and we have a great foundation for a follow up. The character is beyond great and the humor really worked. I walked away wishing for more of Wolfcop and I’m sure I’m not the only one.
Credit should also be given to the cast and particularly Jonathan Cherry for his performance. He reminded me a great deal of Johnny Knoxville and had great comedic timing. When they threw a twist into the script, I was genuinely disappointed because I liked his character that much. He was a great sidekick to Wolfcop.
WOLFCOP nearly lives up to the hype. At least it goes out with a bang and makes you want more.
Scared Stiff Rating: 7/10
THE NEWEST HORROR COLLECTION IS UNLEASHED – ORDER NOW!
