When a little boy playing in his sandbox discovers some blood, it isn’t long until he and his mother find a dog paw in the sand. From here, we are introduced to two sisters, Ginger (Katharine Isabelle) and Brigette (Emily Perkins). The sisters hear of their neighbour’s haunting discovery of a dog paw, and we discover that this strange activity isn’t the first in the neighbourhood. Rumours of wild animals being on the loose are ongoing.
Close sisters Ginger and Brigitte are both interested in all things surrounding death. For fun, the pair will often speak of suicide and stage horrific photos where they pretend to die a horrible death. One evening, when Ginger and Brigitte are walking around a local park at night, Ginger is suddenly attacked by a nearby wolf-like creature. The creature bites Ginger before running away and getting hit and killed by a van while running across the street. Thankfully, Brigitte takes care of Ginger and her wounds. But while Ginger is recovering, strange things start to occur, including a change in her personality and growing hair in unusual places on her body. Now, Brigitte begins to investigate how to help save her sister by creating a cure before it’s too late.
Ginger Snaps is best described as a fantasy and horror film with an added touch of drama, particularly when the relationship between Ginger and Brigitte becomes tense. The visual effects are pleasing, particularly during significant reveals and transformations. The entire film is quite dark and gritty, which is fitting given the plot and storyline.
Performances are another praise point. Katharine Isabelle and Emily Perkins are convincing as sisters. The pair were more than capable of carrying the film and keeping the story engaging, especially Emily Perkins as Brigitte, who is highly invested in saving her sister while becoming increasingly emotional and dramatic at the odd yet massive changes occurring to Ginger.
Overall, those who enjoy horror films with a strong fantasy aspect and a mix of drama should take note of Ginger Snaps. It’s a fun tale that is far more than just another werewolf movie. The journey is dark and heartfelt as we follow a pair of sisters who were once close before beginning to slowly fall apart, all because of one nasty bite from a menacing dog-like monster. It’s easy to be invested in the film, given that both the characters are enjoyable to follow, and the performances are also compelling and pleasing. Ultimately, this was enjoyable and entertainingly unpredictable, leaving viewers surprised and eager to check the next instalment.
7.1/10
30th July 2023
Written by Peter Walkden
WALKDEN ENTERTAINMENT
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