The horror genre has been a fan favorite since the beginning of filmmaking. The relevance of movies like Nosferatu and the Cabinet of Dr. Caligari today can be a testament to the genre's popularity. But the genre has come a very long way with monsters, serial killers, and ghosts, just to name a few of cinema's numerous contributions to the genre. Many of cinema's monsters got their start with Universal Studios in the early to mid-1900s. Monsters like vampires got much of their current perception and look from those movies. But one monster that doesn't get the respect and love that vampires do is werewolves.
That isn't to say that Werewolves haven't left their mark on cinema history. The Wolf Man, An American Werewolf in London, and The Howling are just a few iconic horror films that the big bad wolf has brought to horror. But beyond just the staples, not many titles are even considered by many fans. This is a shame, as there are so many great werewolf movies that either deserve a second chance or just a first viewing.
Cursed
When thinking of horror icons, Wes Craven has to be on the list. Very few directors have had even close to the impact on a single genre that Wes Craven has had on horror cinema. With A Nightmare on Elm. Street and Scream alone, he more than earned his right in the horror hall of fame. So when saying a Wes Craven horror movie is underappreciated, it's kind of hard to believe. But it's true with his 2004 Werewolf movie, Cursed. Following a sibling duo (played by Jesse Eisenberg and Christina Ricci) after a run-in with a beast, they find themselves also turning into something a bit more beastly.
Is it a great movie? No. Is it even a good movie? Maybe. But it is an absolute blast, especially for those who grew up in the late 90s and early 2000s, because this has that time period written all over it. From the edits right out of an MTV show and weirdly homophobic jocks, it will be bringing flashbacks to all those who grew up in the VH1 era. And to say the least, where else could anyone get to see a werewolf flipping the bird?
Werewolf of London
There isn't too much to say about this one, but it is appalling that one of the grandfathers of horror — let alone werewolf movies — is rarely ever mentioned in the best werewolf movie conversations. The movie follows a botanist who returns to London after an attack from a beast (sounds familiar) while looking for the Mariphasa. He soon comes to a realization that he is no longer himself, and the only potential help is the same plant he brought back with him.
It has some of the best aspects from the earlier years of horror cinema, with some of the most creative uses of shadow that anyone could find in a horror movie. For being made in 1935, it is quite impressive. But the most impressive moment in the film is the transformation scene. Although it may seem basic to many audiences today, it is easily the highlight of the movie and a huge achievement for such an old film. For those who've never seen the movie or even just the scene, it deserves a watch.
The Wolfman (2010)
Speaking of horror classics, here's a remake of possibly the most iconic Werewolf movie of all time, The Wolfman. This movie, like many other horror reboots, sequels, and remakes, didn't really leave audiences wanting more. But since its 2010 release, a second chance may show that it deserves a little more love than it got.
It isn't the easiest being compared to a horror icon that is beloved by fans, and this movie actually makes an attempt to bring something cool to audiences. When it comes to the story and plot, there honestly isn't anything to rave about. But the costume and set design are easily among the coolest in any horror movie, and possibly the best design in a werewolf movie.
Silver Bullet
This may be stretching what could be considered underappreciated. But this Stephen King adaptation deserves a spot in late-night movie shows and cult classic movie marathons everywhere. The story is one audience has seen before, especially in werewolf movies. Who or what is committing these murders? There's nothing really new here, but that is not where it leaves a name for itself.
The film is incredibly violent, and it has all the Stephen King story tropes, but it is unexpectedly funny. Now whether that is on purpose or not is another question, but from a wheelchair that can go faster than a speeding car and a child shooting a firework in the eye of a werewolf, the movie is absolutely ridiculous and is a blast to watch. For those planning the next friend group movie viewing, get the popcorn and soda ready because this is the next movie in line.
The Wolf of Snow Hollow
This is not only the most modern werewolf movie on this list, The Wolf of Snow Hollow is also the most creative. Made on a minuscule 2 million dollar budget, this horror comedy is quite the quirky horror movie and works for most of its tight run time. A small town is plagued by violent murders, seemingly from a beast. The town's Marshall attempts to solve the murders all the while raising a daughter, worrying about his father, and dealing with his own addictions. It does sound darker, but writer/director Jim Cummings amazingly weaves in well-timed comedy making it a good time.
But where this movie shines is with its twist ending. Although throughout the movie, it seems like a standard horror murder mystery. It finds its way out of the hall of mediocre horror movies and instead creates a new and unique spot in werewolf cinema history.