The Company of Wolves (1984) Review – A Hauntingly Beautiful and Symbolic Horror Classic

The Company of Wolves (1984) is a visually stunning and thematically rich horror film that subverts the traditional fairy tale formula to explore primal fears and desires. Directed by Neil Jordan and based on a short story by Angela Carter, the movie blends surrealism, Gothic horror, and dark fantasy to create a haunting and poetic dreamscape.

Set in a remote village in a forested region of Europe, the film tells the story of Rosaleen (Sarah Patterson), a young girl who is about to experience the rite of passage from childhood to adolescence. As she explores her sexuality and identity, she encounters a variety of archetypal characters, including a wolf hunter (Micha Bergese), a seductive stranger (Angela Lansbury), and a pack of menacing wolves. As the boundary between reality and fantasy blurs, Rosaleen must confront her deepest fears and desires.

At its core, The Company of Wolves is a coming-of-age tale that explores the dark side of human nature and the danger of suppressing one’s instincts. The film draws heavily on the symbolism and imagery of fairy tales, using them to critique patriarchal norms and celebrate feminine power. The forest, for example, represents both the unconscious mind and the realm of the wild and untamed, while the wolves embody the primitive and sensual aspects of human nature that have been repressed by civilization.

The movie’s cinematography is breathtaking, with richly detailed sets and costumes, atmospheric lighting, and striking visual effects. The special effects, which blend practical makeup and puppetry with stop-motion animation, create a surreal and otherworldly ambiance that perfectly complements the film’s dreamlike narrative.

The performances in The Company of Wolves are uniformly excellent, with Sarah Patterson delivering a particularly nuanced and powerful portrayal of Rosaleen. She conveys the character’s conflicting emotions and desires with subtlety and authenticity, making her journey from innocence to maturity all the more compelling. Angela Lansbury is also memorable as Rosaleen’s grandmother, whose wisdom and mystery are central to the film’s themes.

In conclusion, The Company of Wolves is a cinematic masterpiece that transcends the horror genre and explores universal themes of identity, sexuality, and self-discovery. Its poetic and surreal imagery, powerful symbolism, and nuanced performances make it a haunting and unforgettable cinematic experience. Whether you are a fan of fairy tales, horror, or art-house cinema, this film is a must-see for its beauty and depth.

Cast

The cast of “The Company of Wolves” (1984) includes Sarah Patterson as Rosaleen, Angela Lansbury as Granny, Micha Bergese as the Huntsman, David Warner as Father, Tusse Silberg as Mother, Brian Glover as Amorous Boy’s Father, Graham Crowden as Old Priest, and Kathryn Pogson as Young Bride.