Byte (2024) Review: The App That Turns You Into a Werewolf!

Byte (2024) is an indie werewolf horror film directed by Eddie Lengyel and produced by Millman Productions. It offers a modern spin on the classic lycanthrope mythos by mixing it with digital-age tech.The PremiseThe story follows a group of college friends who download a mysterious smartphone app called “Byte” on Halloween. The app claims it can transform users into werewolves—provided they order “werewolf blood” and perform a specific ritual in a cemetery. While the group initially thinks it’s an elaborate hoax or a viral marketing gimmick, a series of brutal, bloody attacks begins to terrorize their town as the full moon rises.Key Highlights• Practical Effects: A standout for genre fans is the film’s reliance on practical werewolf suits and physical gore effects rather than CGI, which has been noted for its retro feel reminiscent of 1980s classics like Silver Bullet.• Modern Twist: It explores themes of consumerism and “viral” culture, featuring a sinister delivery system for the werewolf ritual components.• Setting: The film was shot in and around the Cleveland, Ohio area.• Cast: Stars Marshall Vargas as Jett, Kayden Bryce as April, Carlie Allen as Nora, and Stephen Nicholas Knight as Damon.AvailabilityThe film premiered at the HorrorHound Film Festival in early 2024 and is currently available for streaming on platforms like Tubi (free with ads), Prime Video, and Fandango at Home. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit goreandgrimepodcast.substack.com