Like An American Werewolf in London (1981), Joe Dante's The Howling (1981) adds a reinvigorating spin on the werewolf genre, with great transformation effects and atmosphere. Written by John Sayles and Terence H. Winkless, it is loosely based on Gary Brandner's novel of the same name. Dante weaves in plenty of horror homages and nods to genre for fans.
Dante's direction is masterful, creating a tense and eerie atmosphere that transitions from urban dread to rural terror. His work here paved the way for Gremlins (1984). The film's settings-both the shadowy city streets and the misty, isolated countryside-heighten the suspense and dread.
Rob Bottin's groundbreaking makeup effects are among the film's strengths, delivering one of the most impressive werewolf transformation sequences. Pino Donaggio's musical score is mostly effective, enhancing the mood and tension. However, some musical cues feel out of place. Nevertheless, his score, combined with Bottin's and Dante's visual flair and the excellent sound design, makes the film and its creatures genuinely unsettling at times.
The cast is superb. Dee Wallace delivers a compelling performance as the haunted Karen White, while the underrated Belinda Balaski shines as Terri Fisher. The supporting cast adds depth, with Patrick Macnee, Christopher Stone, and Elisabeth Brooks (as the seductive Marsha Quist) standing out. Robert Picardo is particularly memorable as the creepy and deranged serial killer Eddie Quist. Don McLeod also makes an impact as Quist's brother. Additionally, horror veterans Kevin McCarthy, John Carradine, Kenneth Tobey, Slim Pickens, and even Roger Corman make appearances. Dick Miller's occult bookshop owner Walter Paisley breaks new ground, with a self aware character who knows about werewolves that has now become a staple in horror films.
While sometimes overlooked, The Howling is a brisk, chilling horror that blends suspense, dark humour, and practical effects. Recommended.
No comments:
Post a Comment