What can I say, this film is not only the greatest werewolf movie ever made, but it is a cinematic masterpiece. Directed the same year as John Landis' American Werewolf In London, The Howling outshines on all levels of darkness, atmosphere, and scares. The one area it does not do better than American Werewolf in London is its humor. Though the movie tries it is not as deliberate as its competition. With that being said, The Howling's intent was to be somewhat comical. Thankfully, it turned out to be more terrifying than funny.
Joe Dante directed this film which is one of the reasons it is awesome. Joe Dante is a master of horror most notable for films like Piranha, and Gremlins 1 and 2. It is safe to say, Mr. Dante is seasoned in the area of creature special effects. In the howling, Joe Dante turned werewolf movies on there ass with his vision of truly animalistic creatures that were not humanoid at all. The special effects in this movie are, bar none, the coolest you will ever see. They do not make them like this anymore, folks. Top that with incredibly dark cinematography, you have one scary film.
The acting in this movie is incredible. There are so many cool people in this film it's ridiculous! I'll start with the late, great Elisabeth Brooks. (Marcia Quist) Her role as Marcia is unforgettable. In my opinion, if you have read the original novel written by Gary Bradner, you will appreciate how Elisabeth brings the role of Marcia to life. It is spot on. Of course, let's not forget the legendary Dee Wallace. Total babe, total scream queen of the 80's to the present. Her presence in any movie to this day takes me right back to the terrified yet fearless heroin of this movie.
This movie will scare the hell out of you even if you have seen it a million times. For those who have seen it, I dare you to turn the lights out and re-watch this masterpiece. If you were born under a rock or are just really young, you have not lived until you have experienced The Howling. Incidentally, this movie spawned a slew of sequels that are (arguably) pretty awesome in their own right. One of these days I will showcase the entire series.
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