British indie horror director Charlie Steeds is back, and he’s bringing the werewolves with him.
Whereas Steeds’ previous lycanthrope efforts are what could be deemed more traditional, Lord of Wolves is a venture into fresh territory.
Here we follow multiple stories across the urban landscape of London, as they all deal with an underground cult of werewolves that may have substantial control over lower rungs of society.
Steeds tackles real-life issues such as domestic violence, abortion and living an open queer life, while mixing it up with the werewolves.
Admittedly, things take a bit of time to mesh together, but it’s our set of characters and some hard-hitting scenes which makes this quite compelling.
We follow amateur photographer Nic, pregnant Beth plus party boy Sean, as they are all drawn towards the titular lord of wolves.
As always Steeds revels in telling queer stories and highlighting outside journeys plus what feels like a commentary on the silently oppressed.
Joshua Tonks is our dependable straight man amongst the trio, with Jake Watkins allowed to be more flamboyant as Sean whereas the emotional core lies with Rosie Edwards’ Beth, who struggles with her unexpected pregnancy alongside a dying relationship with a burgeoning incel.
Steeds pays homage to the world of Clive Barker, with hints of Hellraiser and Candyman plus a wink to Fright Night, with the offer of a higher power with a cost attached.
Steeds and the cast must be commended for stepping outside of the usual tropes of werewolves and giving us something fresh, with a cast that are down to get deep and dirty.
Lord of Wolves is available now on VOD platforms.
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