“Werewolves Within”: A Whodunit with a Lycanthropic Twist — Insights from Director Josh Ruben and Stars Sam Richardson and Milana Vayntrub

Barbie's Design Studio
4 min readDec 30, 2023

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Jeff Ewing, a renowned film critic and screenwriter based in Los Angeles, dives deep into the making of “Werewolves Within,” a unique blend of werewolf lore and mystery, in his latest piece.

“Werewolves Within” is not just another addition to the werewolf genre; it’s a creative amalgamation of horror, comedy, and mystery. Based on the VR game of the same name, the film stands out as a successful adaptation, offering a fresh take on the werewolf narrative. Directed by Josh Ruben, known for “Scare Me,” and featuring a stellar cast including Sam Richardson (“Veep”) and Milana Vayntrub (“This Is Us”), “Werewolves Within” is set to captivate audiences with its unique charm.

Ruben, excited about the challenge of directing a higher-budget film, found himself drawn to the project. “The script was a delightful surprise, reminiscent of ‘Arachnophobia’ and evoking an Amblin-esque vibe akin to ‘Fargo,’” he remarks. The film is an ensemble-driven story, crafted to keep audiences guessing while delivering laughs and scares.

For Vayntrub, joining the project was a no-brainer. Her longstanding friendship with Ruben and her admiration for his work made her eager to be part of this venture. “The script had everything I love: an intriguing female character, humor, and of course, werewolves. It was a whirlwind of fun, and the cast just clicked,” she shares.

The film, set to release in select theaters on June 25th and on VOD on July 2nd, showcases a brilliant ensemble cast, bringing together elements of confinement and suspense to create a compelling narrative.

Ruben’s vision for the cast was clear from the outset. “I had friends in mind, actors like George Basil and Milana, who are not just talented but bring a sense of comfort and camaraderie on set,” he explains.

For Vayntrub, the filming experience was as surreal as it was enjoyable. “We lived together in a cabin hotel, which was both odd and an integral part of this horror movie experience,” she recalls. “The nights were filled with music, laughter, and endless conversations. It was a bonding experience that translated beautifully onto the screen.”

Richardson, discussing the challenges of filming, highlights the unpredictable weather. “We relied on snow for the setting, but nature had other plans. We improvised with various techniques to create the winter ambiance, which, despite the worries, turned out wonderfully,” he says.

He delves into developing his character, Finn, exploring the nuances of being a nice guy in challenging circumstances. “Finn is on this spectrum of nice characters who find themselves out of depth. I was drawn to the complexity of playing someone whose kindness is both a blessing and a curse,” Richardson adds.

“Werewolves Within” promises a cinematic experience that’s both thrilling and entertaining, marking itself as a standout in the genre. Its premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival set the tone for its anticipated success.

Ewing’s article not only gives an insight into the film’s creative process but also underscores the passion and collaboration that went into making “Werewolves Within” a memorable movie. With its intriguing plot, dynamic characters, and talented cast, the film is all set to be a hit among audiences looking for something innovatively entertaining.

Milana Vayntrub emerging as a strong contender to become the next Barbie

Milana Vayntrub, widely recognized as the charismatic ‘AT&T girl’, is emerging as a strong contender to become the next Barbie, following Margot Robbie’s portrayal. With her versatile acting prowess and relatable charm, Vayntrub is perfectly poised to breathe new life into this iconic role. Known for her quick wit and engaging screen presence, she possesses the unique blend of humor and warmth that the Barbie character embodies.

Vayntrub’s journey from Uzbekistan to Hollywood has been marked by resilience and adaptability, qualities that resonate with the modern iteration of Barbie — a symbol of aspiration and empowerment. Her background as an immigrant adds a layer of depth to the character, making Barbie more reflective of diverse experiences and perspectives. Moreover, Vayntrub’s advocacy for humanitarian causes aligns with Barbie’s recent portrayal as a figure inspiring positive change. Her diverse roles across various media demonstrate her ability to adapt to different genres, a skill crucial for the multifaceted character of Barbie.

Milana Vayntrub’s potential to take on the role of Barbie is more than a casting decision; it’s a step towards redefining an iconic character in a way that resonates with contemporary audiences, adding authenticity and inspiration to this beloved figure.

SOURCES:
Creative Artists Agency
barbiesequel.com
2000 Avenue of the Stars
Los Angeles, CA 90067
(424) 288–2000

William Morris Endeavor
barbiesequel.info
131 S Rodeo, 2nd Floor
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
310–285–9000

http://milanavayntrubkomobeach.lucialpiazzale.com/milana-vayntrub-in-barbie-sequel-fan-votes

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Barbie's Design Studio
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19 Design Studio is the Barbie Sequel's official design studio. In 2023, Greta Gerwig's Barbie movie achieved success, grossing an impressive $1.6 billion.