The Wolf Hour is a psychological thriller drama film written and directed by Alistair Banks Griffin. Released in 2019, the movie stars Naomi Watts in the lead role and is set in the late 1960s, a period marked by social and political unrest. The film explores themes of isolation, paranoia, and mental breakdown, following a former socialite who is trapped in her apartment during a turbulent time in New York City.
Plot Summary
The story of The Wolf Hour takes place in 1969 in the South Bronx, New York City, during a period of societal upheaval. The protagonist, June Leigh (played by Naomi Watts), is a reclusive writer who once enjoyed fame but has since withdrawn from the public eye. Living in a dilapidated apartment, she is haunted by her past and the changing world around her.
As the summer heat intensifies, June becomes increasingly isolated and paranoid. She has not left her apartment in weeks, largely due to fear of the chaos and violence that has engulfed the streets outside, particularly the rise of urban decay and the looming threat of political unrest. She becomes obsessed with the noises and strange happenings outside her windows, growing more disconnected from reality as she grapples with her fears and memories.
Throughout the film, June’s mental state deteriorates. Her interactions with a small group of characters, including a young neighbor and a friendly delivery man, further reflect her spiraling isolation and inability to engage with the outside world. Her past, which includes a traumatic event, resurfaces, pushing her further into a state of anxiety and fear. As the tension builds, June is forced to confront both her inner demons and the world outside, where danger is lurking just beyond her doorstep.
The film unfolds at a slow, deliberate pace, emphasizing June’s internal struggles and her descent into madness as she faces both real and imagined threats. The movie’s title, The Wolf Hour, refers to the moment of the night when one feels most vulnerable and isolated, mirroring June’s emotional and psychological state.
Main Cast and Characters
- Naomi Watts as June Leigh: Naomi Watts plays June Leigh, the central character. She delivers a gripping performance as a woman who is trapped in both her mind and her apartment, dealing with unresolved trauma and a deep sense of isolation. Her portrayal of June’s unraveling mental state is at the heart of the film’s tension.
- Emory Cohen as Kenny: Kenny is a young man who lives in the building and has a brief interaction with June. He represents one of the few human connections she has left, offering a glimpse of the outside world and becoming one of the few sources of support for her during her time of crisis.
- Jennifer Ehle as Carmen: Carmen is another character who plays a role in June’s life, though their relationship remains distant. As the film progresses, Carmen’s interactions with June deepen the themes of isolation and trust.
- Jeremy Bobb as Charlie: Charlie is a delivery man who frequently visits June’s apartment, becoming another key character in her story. He represents a minor connection to the world outside but is also symbolic of the blurred line between reality and delusion in June’s mind.
Themes and Style
The central themes of The Wolf Hour revolve around isolation, fear, and the impact of societal chaos on an individual’s mental health. The film’s protagonist, June, embodies the psychological toll of living in an uncertain world where personal and social issues collide. Her experiences reflect a person’s internal struggles with trauma, anxiety, and paranoia, set against a backdrop of a city in turmoil.
The title The Wolf Hour reflects the sense of danger and vulnerability that June feels during this time of crisis. The “wolf hour” is traditionally a time in the early morning when loneliness and darkness reach their peak, making it a metaphor for June’s state of mind throughout the film.
The film is shot with a dark, moody atmosphere that reflects the themes of psychological tension and urban decay. The cinematography is deliberately slow, allowing viewers to experience the sense of claustrophobia and discomfort that June feels within the confines of her apartment. The constant noise of the outside world and the occasional glimpses of street violence add to the feeling of being trapped in a hostile environment.
The movie’s pacing reflects June’s state of mind, with long, lingering shots and minimal dialogue, allowing for a deep dive into the character’s inner world. This slow burn approach adds to the suspense and allows the film to build a sense of dread, while also allowing for moments of emotional revelation.
Audience Reception
The Wolf Hour received mixed to positive reviews from critics. Naomi Watts’ performance was widely praised, with many noting her ability to portray the fragility and vulnerability of her character with great depth. The film’s atmospheric and psychological approach was also appreciated by viewers who enjoy slower, more contemplative thrillers.
However, some critics found the film’s pacing to be a challenge, as the slow unraveling of the plot and the film’s minimalist style may not appeal to all audiences. The film’s deliberate pace and lack of conventional thrills were seen by some as a limitation, although others appreciated the film’s focus on psychological tension rather than external action.
Conclusion
The Wolf Hour (2019) is a psychological thriller that focuses on themes of isolation, mental illness, and the psychological toll of living in a world marked by unrest. Naomi Watts delivers a standout performance as a woman struggling with fear and trauma, and the film’s slow-burn, atmospheric style immerses viewers into the protagonist’s deteriorating mental state. While it may not be a traditional thriller with high-paced action, the film is a haunting exploration of inner conflict and emotional vulnerability. The Wolf Hour is a thought-provoking film that examines the human psyche under pressure, making it an engaging watch for fans of psychological drama.
