Movie Review: The Werewolf (1956)
Synopsis
Directed by Edward Dein and released in 1956, "The Werewolf" is a unique addition to the horror genre that marries classic werewolf lore with a psychological twist. The film tells the story of a man named Doctor John ‘Doc’ B. Polito, played by the ever-reliable George Waggner, who undergoes a grisly transformation into a terrifying creature, set against the backdrop of an unwelcoming rural community. The narrative unfolds as Doc becomes the unwitting victim of a rare affliction that triggers his transformation into a werewolf during the full moon.
As the story progresses, we learn that Doc is a kind-hearted man unwittingly cursed with a dual nature, having been affected by an experimental treatment aimed at reversing the effects of aggressiveness. The townsfolk, led by earnest Sheriff Dan (Ken Gager), are initially unaware of the creature’s true identity, misunderstanding its nature as a predatory beast prowling the countryside. As fear grips the town and suspicions rise, the film explores themes of isolation, monstrosity, and the impact of social misunderstanding.
Caught between his human self and his savage alter ego, Doc grapples with his identity while trying to navigate the horror he has unwittingly unleashed on the unsuspecting villagers. Striving for redemption, he seeks a way to rid himself of the curse that has turned him into the very thing he fears the most.
Cast of Characters
- George Waggner as Dr. John ‘Doc’ B. Polito
- Evelyn Ankers as Dr. Janet McEntire
- Paul Cavanagh as Sheriff Dan
- James Best as Deputy Wilkins
- Ned Glass as Mr. Skinner
- Kathleen Crowley as Carol
- Carl Yanak as Paul
- Frank Wilcox as Dr. Shaw
Review
"The Werewolf" meets the viewer with a heavy malaise, reminiscent of classic monster films that relied heavily on atmospheric dread and psychological nuance rather than sheer graphic horror. Though it falls into the well-trodden pathway of werewolf mythology, Edward Dein’s film stands out through its concentrated focus on characterisation over special effects, which might seem a bit unconventional for a creature feature of its era.
From the opening scenes, the film establishes its tone and thematic preoccupations effectively. The cinematography, with its carefully composed shots of the desolate landscapes and the foreboding settings, paints a picture of an isolated town where dangers lurk at the edges of the frame. The acting choices add to the film’s realism; George Waggner delivers a compelling portrayal of a man grappling with both his human vulnerability and the brute instincts that awaken within him. The poignant conflict between his striving for identity and the curse placed upon him raises the film beyond its horror confines into a meaningful exploration of humanity and monstrosity.
The biggest strength of "The Werewolf" lies in its script, which ingeniously integrates the psychological struggle of its protagonist with the elements of horror. Unlike the more typical portrayal of werewolves purely as savage beasts lusting for blood, this narrative carefully threads through the moral implications of being turned into a monster against one’s will. The character arc of Doc blurs the lines between victim and predator. As he attempts to understand his affliction and ultimately seeks a path towards redemption, it allows the audience to empathise deeply with his plight, thus ensuring the narrative resonates on a more profound level.
However, the film is not without its shortcomings. The pacing occasionally falters, especially in the middle act where one might find certain scenes to drag on unnecessarily. This could be viewed as a drawback, as the tension might have been heightened with a more brisk handling of the narrative. At times, the supporting characters, despite their earnest portrayals, seem to lack depth. They become mere vessels to drive the plot forward, leaving some emotional arcs underdeveloped. The film could have benefited from delving deeper into the dynamics of the town, exploring how fear can alter community bonds and give birth to paranoia.
Evelyn Ankers provides a strong counterpart to Waggner’s Doc, embodying a beacon of hope and humanity amidst the turmoil. As Dr. Janet McEntire, she lenses a tragic hero who sees the potential for redemption in Doc, challenging the fearful perception of the beast within and seeking to unveil the man underneath. Their on-screen chemistry adds an intriguing layer to the emotional stakes, enhancing the overall narrative quality of the piece.
Moreover, "The Werewolf" employs a mixture of practical effects and atmospheric sound design that contribute significantly to its sense of horror. The werewolf makeup, while modest compared to modern standards, holds a certain charm that is reminiscent of the era’s creature features. The sight of Doc transforming, though perhaps not as graphic as contemporary horror fans might expect, nevertheless evokes a visceral response, thanks to the scoring, which complements the growing tension expertly.
Ultimately, the film’s climax brings Doc’s conflict to a poignant conclusion. It serves as a powerful commentary on the struggles of man against his baser instincts, questioning the capacity for humanity to coexist with the darker impulses that lurk within us all.
Conclusion
In retrospect, "The Werewolf" (1956) achieves a commendable balance between horror and emotional depth. While it grapples with the tropes of its genre, it manages to do so by placing the focus on character development and psychological nuance, which ultimately allows the film to remain relevant even decades after its release. Although the pacing issues and underdeveloped supporting characters serve as minor detractors, the film’s exploration of identity, monstrosity, and the inherent struggle between good and evil resonates deeply, aided by strong performances from the lead actors.
For those seeking a classic horror experience that invites further contemplation and emotional engagement rather than sheer shock value, "The Werewolf" is a hidden gem worth rediscovering.
Score: 7/10