Five years after its release, Josh Ruben's werewolf horror-comedy "Werewolves Within" is now available to stream for free on platforms including Tubi, Sling TV, Philo, and PLEX.
While technically an adaptation of the 2016 social deduction VR game of the same name, the film diverges significantly from its source material, moving the setting from medieval Europe to modern-day Vermont. Ruben, known for his work on Dropout shows like "Make Some Noise" and "Game Changer," has transitioned into directing horror films, with "Werewolves Within" being one of his notable early ventures in the genre, following the 2025 slasher "Heart Eyes."
"Werewolves Within" follows Finn Wheeler (Sam Richardson), a U.S. Forest Service ranger who arrives in the small town of Beaverton, Vermont, only to be met with an avalanche that traps the residents. The situation escalates when a power outage coincides with the discovery of a mauled corpse. As the townspeople, already divided by a proposed gas pipeline, are forced indoors, suspicion and paranoia grow. Finn attempts to maintain order amidst the escalating violence, all while dealing with the possibility that the killer may not be human.
A Town of Eccentrics
The film's ensemble cast features a variety of quirky characters, including a pair of retired tech millionaires, a conspiracy theorist couple, and a zoologist. Cecily, portrayed by Milana Vayntrub, is highlighted as the standout local mail carrier who commands attention in every scene.
Unlike many horror films where supporting characters are expendable, "Werewolves Within" fleshes out its residents, fitting for a movie based on a social deduction game. This approach allows for ambiguity regarding who might be the killer or the titular werewolf, keeping the audience guessing until the body count rises.
The film leans heavily into its comedic elements, which sometimes overshadows potential scares. Ruben's directorial approach often prioritizes humor, leading to moments where suspenseful scenes are undercut by jokes. The narrative is described as a "high-budget, R-rated episode of Scooby-Doo," and viewers expecting that tone are likely to enjoy the movie.
