Wolfen

Wolfen

Year: 1981

Runtime: 115 min

Language: English

Directors: John D. Hancock, Michael Wadleigh, Rupert Hitzig

ThrillerHorror

In a city torn apart by gruesome murders, Detective Dewey Wilson must confront the unthinkable: a monster from Native American legend has taken on a life of its own. As he delves deeper into the case with criminologist Rebecca Neff, they uncover a web of secrets and ancient lore that threaten to consume them - and reveal a shocking truth behind the brutal killings.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Wolfen (1981)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Wolfen (1981). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The events unfold in a contemporary setting, highlighting the socio-political climate of urban America during the 1980s. This period is marked by increasing crime rates and social unrest, as well as a growing interest in the supernatural and its manifestations in popular culture.

Location

South Bronx, Manhattan, Battery Park, Charlotte Street, Central Park

The film takes place primarily in the South Bronx and Manhattan, reflecting the stark contrasts between urban development and decay. Battery Park serves as an eerie backdrop for the initial attacks, while the abandoned church on Charlotte Street symbolizes forgotten history. Central Park also features prominently in the investigation, showcasing the hidden dangers that lurk even in New York's green spaces.

🏙️ City 🔍 Investigation

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:02

Main Characters – Wolfen (1981)
Meet the key characters of Wolfen (1981), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Captain Dewey Wilson (Albert Finney)

Captain Dewey Wilson is a determined NYPD officer tasked with unraveling a series of horrific murders. As he navigates through layers of myths and urban ominousness, Wilson exhibits tenacity and resourcefulness, revealing his inner conflict as he confronts the encroaching supernatural. His journey reflects a deepening awareness of societal complexities and the power dynamics at play.

👮‍♂️ Detective 🔎 Investigator ⚖️ Justice

Rebecca Neff (Diane Venora)

Rebecca Neff is a criminal psychologist who brings expertise and a critical perspective to the investigation. Professional yet empathetic, she navigates the haunting events alongside Wilson, embodying a stronger connection to the emotional toll of the case. Her character represents the intersection of psychology and the supernatural, as she grapples with understanding the inexplicable.

🧠 Psychologist 💡 Insightful 👩‍⚕️ Supportive

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:02

Major Themes – Wolfen (1981)
Explore the central themes of Wolfen (1981), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🐺 Predation

Predation plays a critical role in the narrative, symbolizing not only the physical threat posed by the wolfen but also the societal dynamics of power and survival. The theme is explored through the dangerous encounters with the mysterious creatures as well as the metaphorical predation inherent in urban development and capitalism. The film suggests that humans are often predators in their own right, illustrating complex relationships within society.

🌌 Supernatural

The supernatural theme is intricately woven into the plot via the mythical wolfen, representing a blend of folklore and urban mythology. This theme manifests through the characters' encounters with the wolfen, which challenge their understanding of reality. The mysterious presence of these creatures serves as a commentary on the unseen forces that shape human existence and survival.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:02

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