Whilst he's an utterly pathetic character, one feels little sympathy for the central antagonist whatever his affliction, a grovelling little specimen who lures vulnerable women (and girls) deep into the woods under benevolent pretences, only to prey on his victims with selfish disregard.
His methods aren't particularly sophisticated, the MO always the same, and so it's surprising that even in the late 19th century he was able to inflict so much carnage in such a small geographical area without arousing suspicion. The web of lies are so loose that it's only a matter of time for the house of cards to tumble, and the local abbot (Casas) reluctantly sets out to discover the disturbing truth.
Lopez-Vasquez is devastatingly effective as the imbecilic, almost Neanderthal looking Benito, his mannerisms and vocal performance match the cowardly itinerant, a man of limited means who seems to feel the world owes him something, despite everyone with whom he comes into contact being courteous and respectful. Deeply resentful of their kindness, which he seems to interpret as patronising pity, he lulls them into entrusting him, then betrays that confidence with callous indifference.
Euro-horror fans will relish the sight of John Steiner in a small supporting role as a Protestant missionary with whom Benito briefly has contact, his character more incidental to the plot than critical in any way, but still interesting to see him in a very early role (the film was made in 1969).
Although not at all gory, there's still one or two scenes that many viewers could potentially find upsetting, the film isn't graphically violent, but its the sanctity the main character breaches that makes the crimes so hideous and deplorable.
Well-paced and photographed, it's an eerie little Spanish folk-horror, hard to find but definitely worth a look. And for those wanting to see lycanthropy, you'll be disappointed to realise there's no werewolf, only a wolf in sheep's clothing which in this case might still be enough to reward your attention.
