Review of Wolf Creek (2005) by John A — 17 Sep 2011

Wolf Creek is a 2005 horror film directed by Greg McLean.

This is a good horror film, but I'll start off with the worst parts of it. Firstly is pacing issues, especially at the beginning of the film. It takes roughly 45 minutes for the backpackers to get to Wolf Creek. There are also very mild pacing issues while they are being threatened by the antagonist, but not nearly as bad as the extremely slow start. Secondly, the characters are quite boring (despite really good acting). There was really nobody to root for, and yes, I do understand it's "based on true events", but Greg (he also wrote the film) could have fleshed out the characters a bit more.

Now for the pros. I have to give huge credit to the director of photography (Will Gibson) for providing some of the most breathtaking shots I've ever seen in a horror film. It is a truly great film to look at. Also, the direction by Greg McLean is fantastic; there are some very suspenseful scenes in there and the tension after the slow build is mostly consistent. There is a pretty intense chase scene which will have you on the edge of your seat. The acting is also great with a truly frightening performance by John Jarratt as Mick Taylor.

Overall, Wolf Creek has a weak start and boring characters, but finally picks u again in the second act with fantastic cinematography and gruelling tension.

IS IT WORTH THE WATCH... Yes!