I recently rediscovered BROTHERHOOD OF THE WOLF, a 2001 French film about a noble sent by the king in 18th century France to the Gevaudan region to investigate killings by a monstrous wolf. I liked it even more the second time around. It not only holds up over the years, it shines.
The film begins with the knight de Fronsac and his Iroquois companion Mani, traveling to Gevaudan. Almost immediately, during a confrontation on the road, we learn that Mani totally kicks ass in hand to hand combat. At last, they reach their destination, the manor of the local noble, whose son (the wonderful Vincent Cassel) takes an instant disliking to de Fronsac and whose daughter (Émilie Dequenne) becomes the subject of de Fronsac’s amorous interest.
What follows is a terrific mix of monster terror and mystery, excellently choreographed fighting, a political plot, and plenty of intrigue (involving the wonderful and drop-dead stunning Monica Bellucci). With a runtime of two hours and twenty minutes, it almost feels epic. The costumes and sets make the pre-Revolutionary France of the 1700s feel real.
In short, this is a good one, a hidden gem waiting for you.
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