Wolves have long evoked both fear and admiration as symbols of beauty and danger. Their image has changed drastically through the centuries – from creator and helper to symbol of evil, from predator to prey, from legend to icon. Director Raimo O. Niemi (The Blow-flower Boy and the Sky Mechanic) has mainly dabbled in television, but Mystery Of The Wolf, finally released in the UK after a four-year absence, offers a glimpse at this remarkable animal, along with its complex and ever-changing relationship with humans. Mystery Of The Wolf will appeal to children and animal lovers mostly, but the beautiful landscapes and some notable performances by its cast should brighten up any rainy afternoon. DW