The Beast Within (2024) Review

The Beast Within is a psychological horror/thriller with a tale of a savage werewolf at its very core. But that is only part of the story, albeit an important part, which adds an air of intrigue and mystery to what takes place throughout the duration of the movie.

The film stars Kit Harington, best known for his major role in the successful series Game of Thrones, as Noah, who (spoiler alert) is the titular beast from which the film gets its name.

Set in 1965 in the English countryside, the story follows a ten-year-old girl named Willow who begins to question her peculiar upbringing within her family’s heavily secured home. She soon uncovers a chilling secret—her father transforms into a monster once a month. Although her parents insist there’s nothing to fear, everything changes when the creature escapes. Willow is forced to face the unsettling truth about her father and make a decision that could change her life forever.

Harington is ably supported by a small cast (which is all you need for this film) in Ashleigh Cummings as his wife/enabler/confidant Imogen, the always reliable James Cosmo as father-in-law Waylon, and most notably Caolinn Springall as his daughter Willow, who is central to the story arc of the film.

Cosmo and Cummings are well cast and when their characters are given their chance in the spotlight, they deliver. Haringtons character Noah is mixture of loving and hateful, often in equal measure. This adds two contrasting sides to his performance and makes it an engaging watch for the most part. However, the film really belongs to Springall, whose portrayal of Willow really elevates the film.  She convincingly captures the essence of a child trapped in a realm of fear and exudes innocence. Added to that is her character’s need of an oxygen tank to help with breathing, which adds to her general sense of vulnerability.

In terms of location, things couldn’t be more atmospheric. The Beast Within is set in a grand house surrounded by dark and deep forests, and this visual aspect of the film gives off an unsettling feel as the plot develops. And when the film starts moving, it does so quickly, developing at a rapid pace with the glimpses of the horror, graduating to the full story being unraveled.

The pacing of The Beast Within is good. Though there isn’t much time to dwell on much, the velocity keeps things interesting as the plot thickens and Willow realises the true nature of her haunted father.  The atmospheric way in which this is revealed amplifies the vibe of the film throughout. It is sure to appeal to seasoned horror lovers.

The true horror of The Beast Within lies in the subject of abuse, masquerading as the ferocity of the lycanthrope, and this is thankfully handled in a mature way. Though it leads to several horrifying scenes, particularly ones that involve Willow, with Noah unleashing his nasty side in an uncomfortable fashion, it is what makes The Beast Within the film it is. With tension building continually until the climax, when it all is revealed there is a thrilling and satisfying ending to the tale.

The Beast Within is a more than watchable movie,  but relies heavily on psychological thrills rather than horrific scares and strong performances from the small cast.  The genuinely breathtaking visual aspect of the film elevates it above other similar celluloid tales and guarantees a level of enjoyment for all.

Movie Rating:

The Beast Within trailer