ewan
@ewancroft.uk
Minecraft: Java Edition (2011)
★★★★★

Always been a favourite of mine. I first played when the newest version was 1.6, and while I didn’t play for a long time, it’s great to play again. I mainly use a controller, so mods are basically required for me, but I don’t mind.
Cities: Skylines (2015)
★★★★

It’s a great sandbox game which even supports macOS, but I do hate the higher system requirements.
The Platform (2019)
★★★★

Steven Universe: The Movie (2019)
★★★★

Parasyte: The Grey (2024)
★★★★

The Howling (1981)
★★★★½

Wolfblood (2013)
★★★★½

Nostalgia sings loud with this one for me, I admit that. It has great story and characters, with a brilliantly done balance between the lycanthropic and mundane human aspects of the show. The shift from fairly rural Stoneybridge to an unnamed city is a little off-putting, but the story is nicely led by Jana from then on, showing her progression as a 'Wild' in a 'Tame' world among humans.
Wednesday (2022)
★★★★½

Very immersive storytelling and execution with the theme of 'us vs them' which is great. Having the story being told from Wednesday's perspective is a great touch. A good watch if you like The Addams Family, though it does focus more on Wednesday in particular. Hoping to see it again soon for Season 2.
Wolf Pack (2023)
★★★★

I liked the suspense it had, hoping to see more whenever that the next series comes out.
An American Werewolf in Paris (1997)
★★

It has the essence of the original film (being a sequel to An American Werewolf in London with a sixteen-year gap) but basically nothing else. Where are the practical effects? the CGI looks quite bad even for the time. Alex didn't need to die between the films, it felt unnecessary.
The Imperfects (2022)
★★★★

A nice show with a much more scientific angle, leaning on therianthropy more as a consequence of the main story. Wish it wasn't cancelled as it had potential.
Wolfwalkers (2020)
★★★★

A great take on the Werewolves of Ossory, adapted for family audiences with a historical element and backdrop. I like the fantastical aspect. It made me cry a few times, honestly.
Being Human (2009)
★★★★½

Very nice watch. Had great depth and reminded me heavily of Wolfblood, if just more mature in theming. Honestly wish there were more series.
Wolf Like Me (2022)
★★★★½

Honestly not bad! It has a great mix of lycanthropic drama and the mundane, with murder and police investigation mixed in! And it's not overly gory either. Great watch.
Teen Wolf (1985)
★★★½

A classic, though somewhat dated and the pacing is a bit odd. Still, nothing really bad to say about it.
Dog Soldiers (2002)
★★★★

I really liked this one. Had that same feeling as An American Werewolf in London with it being a small main cast in a dire situation. Really liked the kitchen fight scene, and the whole reveal with Megan was expected since she showed up out of nowhere, but it still felt great.
An American Werewolf in London (1981)
★★★★½

As most horror fans would know, An American Werewolf in London (1981) is a beloved classic, blending horror and comedy in a way that few films have managed to replicate. It's often referenced in later depictions of werewolves and remains one of the most well-regarded films in the genre. Despite some dated references, such as mentions of erotic cinemas and the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana, it has a timeless quality that still makes it a compelling watch today. One of the film's strongest aspects is its atmosphere. The opening sequence on the moors immediately establishes a sense of dread, with David and Jack lost in an eerie, desolate landscape. The tension builds effectively as the two men become aware that something is stalking them. Their attack is one of the most memorable horror moments of the film, and what makes it so effective is how quickly and brutally it unfolds. The audience, like the characters, barely gets a chance to register what's happening before the horror fully takes hold. Jack's return as an undead apparition adds a unique element to the story, providing both dark humour and exposition. His progressively decaying form is a masterclass in practical effects, particularly the scene where a piece of toast falls out of his wounded cheek—both grotesque and absurdly funny. His interactions with David provide some of the film's most iconic moments, blending the supernatural with a deeply human portrayal of friendship. The concept of werewolf victims being trapped in limbo is an intriguing addition to werewolf lore, and Jack's increasingly desperate pleas for David to end his own life lend the film a tragic undertone. The relationship between David and Alex is another key aspect of the film. While their romance develops rather quickly, it feels natural enough given the circumstances. Alex's compassion for David makes the final act even more devastating, as she tries to reach out to him even when he has lost all control. The famous transformation sequence, where David first turns into a werewolf, remains one of the most impressive practical effects achievements in cinema history. The slow, painful transformation, with David's body stretching and contorting in agonising detail, is a stark contrast to the more instantaneous changes seen in many other werewolf films. The use of sound—David's screams mixed with the cracking of bones and elongation of limbs—adds to the horror, making it a truly unforgettable scene. The film's use of sound in general is exceptional. From the subtle atmospheric noises of the moors to the sudden ferocity of the werewolf attacks, the audio design plays a significant role in building tension. Even small details, like the way animals react to David as his transformation nears, contribute to the sense that something supernatural is at play. The music choices, including ironic use of moon-themed songs like Blue Moon and Bad Moon Rising, also help reinforce the film's dark humour. David's eventual acceptance of his fate is handled well, with his increasingly erratic behaviour as he realises the truth about what he has become. His waking up in the zoo, naked and confused, is one of the film's funnier moments, adding to the film's signature balance of horror and comedy. The scene in the adult cinema, where David confronts Jack and his other victims, is another standout moment. The contrast between the absurdity of the porno playing in the background and the grim discussion of how David should end his life makes it one of the most uniquely unsettling scenes in the film. The ending is abrupt but powerful. After a brief moment where Alex tries to calm him, David, now fully transformed, lunges forward only to be gunned down by the police. There's no drawn-out resolution—just a quick cut to his lifeless human form, followed by a sudden shift to the credits with Blue Moon playing once more. It's a jarring ending, but it fits the film's tone perfectly, avoiding any unnecessary sentimentality. Overall, An American Werewolf in London is a masterful blend of horror, comedy, and practical effects. Its unique take on werewolf mythology, combined with its sharp writing and memorable performances, ensures its place as one of the best horror films ever made.