Fred Dekker shifts from the adult-driven horror of House, House II, and Night of the Creeps* to a more child-focused adventure with The Monster Squad. Co-written by Shane Black and Dekker, the film blends Gremlins, E. T. and The Goonies vibes with classic monster horror. In a Hammer-style opening set in Dracula's castle, and ritual sets the stage. Though the story feels slightly choppy on occasion, likely due to editing or production changes, it remains a heartfelt love letter to Universal's legendary creatures.
The film excels in its creature designs, thanks to the legendary Stan Winston. Duncan Regehr delivers an intense, commanding Dracula, channeling a Hammer Horror menace. Tom Noonan's Frankenstein's Monster is both sympathetic and eerie, while Carl Thibault's snarling Wolfman and Tom Woodruff Jr.'s Gill-Man offer some of the film's best practical effects. Michael Reid MacKay's skeletal Mummy is brief but memorable.
The young cast is excellent, with Andre Gower as the fearless Sean, Robby Kiger as wisecracking Patrick, Brent Chalem as Horace (aka "Fat Kid"), and Ryan Lambert as Rudy, the group's cool, leather-jacketed rebel. Their natural chemistry brings the squad to life. Little Ashley Bank as Phoebe Crenshaw is notable along with Lisa Fuller's virgin Lisa Rhodes.
The strong supporting cast includes Stan Shaw as Detective Sapir, Stephen Macht as Sean's cop father, the late Mary Ellen Trainor as his struggling mother, and Leonardo Cimino as the wise, tragic "Scary German Guy."
High production values, atmospheric cinematography by Bradford May, and Bruce Broughton's sweeping score elevate the film beyond a typical 80s kids' flick. Like the best adventure films of the era, The Monster Squad doesn't shy away from suggestive moments, mild language, and darker themes, making it an entertaining ride for both kids and adults. While it flopped on release, it has rightfully earned its cult status as one of the great 80s horror-adventure films. And a sequel would be welcomed.
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