The Company of Wolves is a 1984 British fantasy horror film directed by Neil Jordan and starring Angela Lansbury, Stephen Rea, and Sarah Patterson. The film is based on the short story of the same name by Angela Carter, which is a retelling of the Little Red Riding Hood folktale with a feminist twist. The film explores themes of femininity, sexuality, and the dangers of desire, and has gained a cult following for its unique and disturbing take on the classic fairy tale.
One of the central themes of The Company of Wolves is the destructive power of desire. Throughout the film, the main character, Rosaleen, is tempted by the charms of a handsome young man, who is revealed to be a werewolf. Despite being warned about the dangers of associating with werewolves, Rosaleen is drawn to him, unable to resist the allure of his seductive words and actions. This temptation ultimately leads to her downfall, as she is transformed into a werewolf herself and is forced to confront the horrific consequences of her desire.
Another significant theme in The Company of Wolves is the role of femininity in society. The film portrays the traditional fairy tale of Little Red Riding Hood in a new and unconventional way, with the main character being a strong and independent young woman who is not afraid to stand up for herself. Rosaleen is portrayed as a woman who is in control of her own sexuality and desires, and is not afraid to challenge the expectations and norms of society. This portrayal of femininity is in contrast to the traditional portrayal of Little Red Riding Hood as a passive and innocent victim, and serves as a commentary on the societal pressure placed on women to conform to certain roles and expectations.
The Company of Wolves also explores the theme of the dangers of temptation and the importance of self-control. Rosaleen is faced with several choices throughout the film, and each one has the potential to have serious consequences. She must decide whether to give in to her desire for the werewolf or to resist him, and her ultimate decision has far-reaching consequences for both her and those around her. This theme is a cautionary tale, reminding us of the importance of being mindful of our desires and making choices that are in our best interests.
In conclusion, The Company of Wolves is a thought-provoking and disturbing film that explores themes of femininity, sexuality, and the dangers of desire. Through its unconventional retelling of the Little Red Riding Hood fairy tale, the film challenges traditional gender roles and expectations, and serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of self-control and the dangers of temptation.