WAMG First Look: ‘Winged Creatures’

‘Winged Creatures’ is a new ensemble drama from Aussie director Rowan Woods (Little Fish, The Boys) based on the novel by Roy Freirich. The story follows a group of strangers that are connected to one another through a tragic shooting inside a diner in Los Angeles. Each of them are deeply effected by the experience and the film explores the varied reactions of the different characters.

Let’s talk Dakota Fanning for a moment. Now, I know this is going to sound harsh, speaking of a “child” actress, but I’m simply not impressed with her work. Believe me, I wish her the best and hope she improves with age… like wine or cheese, but Anna Paquin and Natalie Portman were both far more talented as child actors and they remained talented as adults. With that said, ‘Winged Creatures’ still looks fascinating due to the promising performances from veteran actors surrounding her in the film.

The rather impressive ensemble cast of ‘Winged Creatures’ includes Kate Beckinsale, Forest Whitaker, Embeth Davidtz, Guy Pearce, Jeanne Tripplehorn, Jackie Earle Haley and Jennifer Hudson. From what can be gathered from the trailer, ‘Winged Creatures’ could ultimately head down one of two paths… the overly melodramatic soap opera appeal, or (as I hope) a may suitably sensitive well-played approach a la ‘Crash’ that matches the caliber of performances that are highlights in the trailer. I am particularly stokes, of course for Whitaker (one of my faves) but more so for Haley, who seemingly out of nowhere burst onto the scene as a powerfully demanding acting force with ‘Watchmen’.