The pack is back together in the Paramount+ original Teen Wolf: The Movie. The MTV series was a huge success and still carries a significant fandom. Yes, I’m one of the many who randomly decide to rewatch the series from start to finish. The series had everything: colorful characters, great fantasy, and of course, Stiles. So once news spread of a resurgence a la film, fans —including myself— have been counting the days for its release. And while it was great seeing the fam back together, Teen Wolf: The Movie just made me miss the original series even more.
The film starts right off, similar to a regular Teen Wolf episode. A malevolent force rises in Beacon Hills, as it always does. Soon banshees, werecoyotes, hellhounds, kitsunes, and other shapeshifters are drawn back home. Alpha werewolf, Scott McCall (Tyler Posey) is now a grown man and has to rally the troops to battle yet another dangerous supernatural enemy.
I won’t reveal too much for fans of the show, as there are delightful moments that should be experienced firsthand. However, one thing that is universally agreed upon is the importance of Dylan O’Brien’s portrayal of Stiles. In the series, Stiles wasn’t only the source of comedic relief, but he was central to the investigations. Scott might’ve been the alpha, but Stiles was the heart, the glue that held everyone together. The void where his character should’ve been is incredibly noticeable.
My biggest issue with the film is its overabundance of plot. Some may view this as a positive, but it has so much story that we don’t get much time with the characters. Everything is moving so fast, there are so many pieces, and the film is trying to cram moments with all of our favs to the point that we can’t enjoy what’s happening.
The supernatural elements feel forced and rigid, lacking a natural progression or adequate explanation. Things happen, one moment after the other, but there isn’t much explanation or gentle ascension to a climax. There were a few moments where characters finally used their powers, but it didn’t make much of an impact because the moment was short-lived.
The fantasy also seemed to be lacking. It would’ve been cool to have a new “big bad” that no one had faced before. It’s been 13 years; it would’ve been nice to get something outrageously evil and cunning. Most of the film was spent on Allison’s (Crystal Reed) return (not a spoiler, it’s in the trailer). For the film to be 2hrs and 20 minutes, we should’ve received a more well-rounded experience.
The Teen Wolf formula works best as a series, and this film probably should’ve returned in that format. Towards the end, it seemed as if they may be positioning for a possible spin-off starring Derek’s kid (Yes, Derek has a kid and no we don’t know who the mama is), but if that happens, they should return to the ways of old to ensure it carries the same charm of the original series.
At its best, Teen Wolf: The Movie is a reunion that fans of the series will enjoy. It doesn’t completely scratch the itch, but it does remind us why we loved the series so much. And will probably have fans running back to stream old episodes.
Teen Wolf: The Movie is now streaming on Paramount+.
Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Other Articles
Sundance 2023: Randall Park’s ‘Shortcomings’ Makes for a Solid Debut
Sundance 2023: Great Cast Doesn’t Outweigh “Bad Behaviour”
No Comment! Be the first one.