Before Wolf Man, These Are the 7 Best Werewolf Movies

Universal Pictures is all set to bring a fresh twist on one of its legendary monsters through the movie “Wolf Man,” hitting theaters on January 17, 2025. Directed by Leigh Whannell, who brought us “The Invisible Man,” and featuring Christopher Abbott and Julia Garner, this contemporary retelling revolves around a family man named Blake, who contracts lycanthropy following a werewolf attack at his newly inherited farmhouse. The narrative offers a unique angle on the werewolf genre while preserving the horror elements that made the 1941 original a timeless classic. With the release of this innovative take on the “Wolf Man” tale, it’s an excellent time to reflect upon some of the most influential werewolf films that have molded the genre.

Delve into the transformation of werewolf films, spanning from pioneering works to contemporary masterworks, each offering a unique perspective on how the genre tackles intricate themes using the backdrop of supernatural terror. Here’s a list of seven top-notch werewolf movies that will prepare you for the upcoming ‘Wolf Man’:

1. An American Werewolf in London (1981)
2. The Wolf Man (1941)
3. Ginger Snaps (2000)
4. The Howling (1981)
5. Silver Bullet (1985)
6. Teen Wolf (1985)
7. Werewolf (1996)

7. Werewolf by Night (2022)

Despite being classified as a TV special rather than a full-length movie, “Werewolf by Night” deserves the title of a werewolf feature due to its skillful tribute to classic horror themes. After the demise of monster hunter Ulysses Bloodstone, elite warriors convene for a competition over the potent Bloodstone artifact. One of them is Jack Russell (Gael García Bernal), who hides his werewolf identity while attempting to rescue his captive friend Ted, also known as the Man-Thing. Joined by Ulysses’ estranged daughter Elsa (Laura Donnelly), Jack maneuvers through a lethal game while keeping his true self hidden.

In simple terms, Director Michael Giacchino’s monochrome style and eerie narration give the hour-long special an old-school Universal monster movie vibe, featuring real-life effects and dark, Gothic visuals. Notably, “Werewolf by Night” is a self-contained tale that doesn’t require any prior knowledge of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) for enjoyment. When it was launched, it became the most-streamed program, garnering praise for its departure from usual MCU themes and its dedication to horror aspects. Its success demonstrated that werewolf stories could thrive within the superhero genre while preserving their horror essence.

6. The Wolf Man (1941)

Before delving into this influential film, it’s important to recognize that many subsequent werewolf movies have been inspired by Universal’s original masterpiece, as it essentially established the guidelines for how global cinema portrays lycanthropy. The movie “Wolf Man” focuses on Larry Talbot (played by Lon Chaney Jr.), who goes back to his Welsh family home after his brother’s demise. After saving a local girl from a wolf attack, he is bitten and learns from a Romani woman that he is now cursed to transform into a werewolf. The story unfolds as a heartbreaking journey of transformation, violence, and ultimately, death at the hands of his own father.

The movie’s delving into the dark side of humanity struck a chord with viewers, and Chaney’s compassionate portrayal took it beyond just being a typical monster film. This film has been highly acclaimed by critics, boasting a 91% positive rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Even today, its impact lingers, from shaping werewolf lore – such as the vulnerability to silver and full moon transformations – to its examination of man’s complex nature. These aspects are echoed in Leigh Whannell’s upcoming remake, which intends to preserve the original’s emphasis on psychological terror.

5. The Howling (1981)

Joe Dante’s groundbreaking werewolf movie tells the story of TV news anchor Karen White (Dee Wallace), who is left traumatized following a brutal encounter with serial killer Eddie Quist (Robert Picardo). Her doctor, Dr. George Waggner (Patrick Macnee), suggests she recuperate at “the Colony,” a remote getaway. However, this idyllic sanctuary hides sinister truths, as Karen uncovers that the residents are in fact werewolves. Shockingly, her attacker, Eddie, is among them, and eventually so is her husband, Bill.

In the 1980s, the film “The Howling” revolutionized werewolf movie transformations, thanks to Rob Bottin’s groundbreaking special effects. Critics adored its unique blend of horror and satire, as Dante skillfully combined real fright with social critique. The climactic scene, where Karen transforms on live TV before being fatally shot with silver bullets, is still one of the most iconic moments in horror cinema history. Despite spawning several sequels, none could rival the original’s influence or critical acclaim.

4. Dog Soldiers (2002)

Neil Marshall’s first directorial effort merges military combat with chilling werewolf terror, resulting in a distinctive and thrilling adventure. The narrative revolves around a team of British troops who find themselves under attack by a band of werewolves during a training exercise in the Scottish Highlands. Sergeant Harry Wells (Sean Pertwee) commands this group, and when they seek shelter in an abandoned farmstead, a harrowing night of survival-horror unfolds.

Dog Soldiers garnered acclaim for its gripping action scenes and unique mix of genres. What sets the film apart is its emphasis on providing raw entertainment without delving into heavy philosophical discussions often found in other werewolf movies. The movie won the Brussels International Festival of Fantasy Film’s Golden Raven award, contributing significantly to the rejuvenation of British horror cinema. Its impact is evident in subsequent military horror productions, while its practical effects and tense ambiance have cultivated a dedicated cult audience.

3. Good Manners (2017)

Among the films on this list, it’s highly probable that Good Manners is the least known. This Brazilian dark fantasy masterfully blends social critique with supernatural terror. The narrative revolves around Clara (Isabél Zuaa), a nanny who lives with Ana (Marjorie Estiano), a wealthy, enigmatic pregnant woman with unusual nighttime behaviors. As their bond deepens, Ana’s death during childbirth reveals she gave birth to a werewolf child, Joel (Miguel Lobo). Clara chooses to raise Joel as her own, embarking on a distinct journey that delves into themes of motherhood, class disparities, and self-identity.

The film “Good Manners” garnered extensive critical acclaim, with critics admiring its daring mix of genres and insightful examination of social problems using a horror backdrop. Directors Juliana Rojas and Marco Dutra also craft a visually captivating movie that challenges conventional werewolf film conventions while providing genuine emotional resonance. Despite Brazilian cinema having limited recognition beyond the country, “Good Manners” is one of the most outstanding werewolf movies in existence.

2. An American Werewolf in London (1981)

John Landis’s horror-comedy classic tells the story of American travelers David Kessler (David Naughton) and Jack Goodman (Griffin Dunne), who run into a werewolf on the Yorkshire moors. Following Jack’s demise and David’s transformation, the movie morphs into an intriguing mix of authentic horror and dark wit, as David is pursued by his ghostly friend’s decaying spirit while developing feelings for nurse Alex Price (Jenny Agutter).

The groundbreaking werewolf metamorphosis sequence in the film, crafted by makeup artist Rick Baker, was the first to win an Academy Award for Best Makeup and established a new benchmark for practical effects in horror movies. “An American Werewolf in London” deserves praise for its harmonious blend of terror and comedy, compelling acting, and iconic soundtrack filled with moon-themed tunes. The film’s impact transcends the horror genre, leaving an indelible mark on countless filmmakers who sought to emulate its mastery of practical effects and innovative genre fusion storytelling.

1. Ginger Snaps (2000)

In this chilling Canadian movie, lycanthropy serves as an intriguing symbol for the journey through female adolescence. The characters, sisters Ginger (Katharine Isabelle) and Brigitte Fitzgerald (Emily Perkins), exhibit a captivating interest in death and a sense of detachment from their peers. When Ginger is bitten by a werewolf, her transformation mirrors her transition into womanhood, offering a potent representation of the struggles and transformations experienced during puberty.

Ever since its debut, “Ginger Snaps” has garnered a considerable fan base, especially among women who appreciate horror films. The intelligent screenplay, dark wit, and captivating portrayals by Emily Perkins and Katharine Isabelle as the Fitzgerald sisters make it a must-watch for many viewers. What’s more, “Ginger Snaps” tackled horror from a female viewpoint before feminist horror gained prominence. Although it was initially underappreciated upon release, “Ginger Snaps” has since been acclaimed for its feminist undertones and innovative take on the werewolf genre, finally receiving the admiration it truly merited.

2025-01-05 03:10