Red Riding Hood [Blu-ray] [2011]

I was pleasantly surprised by this film, considering I had bought it on a sale at Halloween. The eerie-spooky appeal that the director has been putting into her work for some time now is really something special - like the visual charming appeal that Twilight had in its early days: you can easily recognize it as such. The plot itself has taken inspiration from the classic fable, but with a fresh spin, and I appreciate how the original elements have been retained while still offering something new. As I've grown older, I find myself appreciating this more mature take on the story, which explores themes of warning and undertones that were present in traditional fairy tales. The protagonist is no longer a child, so it's even clearer to me now that there's a sexual undertone at play - one that's not sappy or gratuitous, but rather subtle. I've enjoyed figuring out who the real werewolf is, as in a classical thriller, and this film delivers with plenty of suspects to keep you guessing. The ending was satisfying, too, and I was pleased to see how well it all came together. What really stands out here, however, are the performances - Gary Oldman shines as the hunter, while the new cast members bring their own unique energy to the roles. Overall, I'm thoroughly impressed that they've finally taken this serious, rather than treating it like just another parody.

D. Ives - 26/02/2026

This dark retelling of the classic fairy tale, starring Amanda Seyfried as Valerie, is a thrilling ride through a secluded village plagued by a supernatural force known only as the werewolf. The setting is atmospheric and foreboding, with stunning sets that transport viewers to an otherworldly landscape where magic lurks beneath the surface.

The story weaves together unrequited love, forbidden romance, and a web of secrets and lies, set against the backdrop of a sinister plot to destroy the town. With breathtaking scenery and a haunting Celtic Carnyx style musical score, this film is a masterclass in atmospheric tension.

The cast delivers convincing performances that bring depth and nuance to their characters, but what truly sets the film apart is its ability to balance action, suspense, and emotion. A standout aspect of the production is its use of language, which offers viewers an immersive experience with 50 different languages available for playback.

From a technical standpoint, the single disc loads smoothly into three trailers and a blu-ray ad before diving into the main menu options. This thoughtful approach ensures that viewers can fully engage with the film's world without interruption.

This reworking of the classic tale offers a unique take on love, loss, and survival, but may not be to everyone's taste. While it falls short of being a traditional horror experience, fans of atmospheric dramas will find this an intriguing and thought-provoking watch. Those who prefer more brooding tales may want to approach with caution.

Ultimately, the film delivers on its promise of a gripping narrative that explores complex themes and emotions. However, viewers should be aware that it doesn't quite live up to the expectations of those seeking a horror experience.

B. May - 13/02/2026