‘Werewolves’ Star Praises Practical Effects Ahead Of Action-Horror Film’s Release

The upcoming action-horror film Werewolves is set to bring practical effects back into the spotlight when it hits theaters on December 6.

Directed by Steven C. Miller, the film has been described by lead actor Frank Grillo as “The Purge meets werewolves,” promising an intense blend of action, horror and old-school movie magic.

Co-star Lou Diamond Phillips, who plays Dr. Aranda, recently praised the production’s commitment to practical effects, calling them “unbelievable” in an interview with MovieWeb. Phillips, known for his roles in La Bamba and Young Guns, highlighted how Miller’s dedication to realism sets the movie apart in a CGI-heavy era.

“Steven C. Miller is a guy with a plan,” Phillips said. “The practical effects are unbelievable. Those are stunt guys, sweating their [hearts] out in Puerto Rico making that movie. It’s embellished a little with CGI, but the foundation is real. It’s a joy to work with directors like that.”

Phillips also drew comparisons to another recent project, Get Fast, directed by James C. Clayton. He noted that both directors share a passion for practical filmmaking, which he finds increasingly rare in today’s industry.

In Werewolves, a latent genetic mutation is triggered by the light of a supermoon, transforming ordinary people into bloodthirsty creatures. Grillo stars alongside Phillips, bringing a grounded intensity to the chaotic, moonlit carnage.

Unlike many smaller horror films that go straight to streaming, Werewolves is receiving a wide theatrical release. Distributed by Briarcliff Entertainment, the movie will be available across the U.S., with advance tickets going on sale Nov. 22. Miller confirmed the news on social media, reassuring fans that the film will have a broad reach.

“It’s going wide,” Miller wrote in response to a fan query on X. “Theater showtimes and advance tickets will go on sale Nov. 22.”

This wide release is welcome news for werewolf fans, who have seen limited representation of the iconic creatures on the big screen in recent years. 

With Universal’s Wolf Man on the horizon, Werewolves looks to revive the genre with its practical effects and indie approach.

Horror enthusiasts eager for a fresh take on werewolf lore can mark their calendars for December 6, as Werewolves promises to deliver thrills, chills and a reminder of the power of practical filmmaking.