Cry Of The Werewolf

Cry of the Werewolf is a compelling yet uncanny exploration of lycanthropic folklore, judiciously harmonizing 1940s cinematic glamor with an unprecedented take on the mythical creature - the werewolf. Directed by Henry Levin in 1944, this entrancing film stars Dutch actress and producer, Nina Foch, alongside dashing Hollywood star Stephen Crane and Danish actress Osa Massen. Despite being less notorious than its cousins - Dracula and Frankenstein - in the horror genre, Cry of the Werewolf is rich in atmospheric chills and layers of gothic allure that confidently embrace the often overlooked traditions of werewolf lore.

The film opens in New Orleans, the Gypsy princess Celeste, portrayed by the compelling Nina Foch, resides over a museum dedicated to the supernatural traditions of her ancestors - gypsies. The exhibition teems with relics from their past, including the somewhat morbid preservation of a werewolf. Underneath the pretense of a humble curator, Celeste fiercely guards these antiquities as they enshrine the dark secret of her lineage. She represents the previous generation's curse and holds the power to transform into a fierce werewolf under specific circumstances. Hence, the museum symbolizes more than a mere collection - it is the safekeeping of a potent lineage that stimulates curiosity and alarms those who dare to uncover its veil.

When Dr. Morris (Fritz Leiber), in his quest for truth, threatens to reveal the museum's dark secret, the narrative cleverly takes an eerie detour. Celeste, driven by her need to protect her lineage and perpetuate the curse, embarks on a dangerous journey that ensues a hostile confrontation between the mortal and supernatural, man, and beast. Thus, the biting tension between the unveiling of the truth and the stringent preservation of auxiliaries forms the basis of this perceived "horror noir" plot.

Stephen Crane portrays the broad-minded yet fearless son of Dr. Morris, Bob Morris. Bob, together with Elsa (Osa Massen), attempts to unfold the shadowy presence surrounding his father's mysterious death, thereby venturing into a treacherous labyrinth of antiquity intertwined with dread and haunting aura rarely breached by the civil society. The love story between Bob and Elsa blossoms amid the sinister backdrop, mellowing down the fusion of terror with an aromatic charm, which adds a unique flavor to the story.

Meticulously put together by the talented Henry Levin, Cry of the Werewolf distills the age-old belief in the fantastical beast revitalizing it into an intense and melodramatic affair. It amalgamates the living and the supernatural, past and present, fear, and romance into a seamless masterpiece of terror and suspense. The striking performances by the lead cast add depth and verve to the narrative. In particular, Foch's sensational performance keeps the audience's eyes glued to the screen with her lethal glare and alluring mystique.

Distinct from the more masculine portrayals of the werewolf creature in the annals of horror cinema, Cry of the Werewolf plays upon the auxiliary of the “femme fatale” through the character of Celeste. This unique representation brings an extra layer of mystique to the narrative. On one hand, she is an alluring gypsy princess; on the other hand, she is a ferocious werewolf, shifting between these identities effortlessly while personifying the ominous depth of her character.

The film’s setting plays a pivotal role in advancing its all-consuming eeriness. With the antique museum arousing an underlying spectral essence, to the haunting New Orleans nightlife, to the enigmatic swamplands, every location within the movie plays a significant role in intensifying an already gripping plot.

The movie crafts an atmosphere of suspense and dread that does not solely rely on shock value or crass horror. On the contrary, it alternates between psychological terror and an eerie depiction of the supernatural, contributing to the increasing tension within the story, intensifying the fear factor.

Cry of the Werewolf stands out as one of the 1940s most underrated and intensely gothic horror films. Its portrayal of werewolves, complemented by strong performances and unique storytelling techniques, provides a breath of fresh air in an otherwise vampire and monstrous dominated genre landscape. Despite not gracing the limelight as more popular horror classics, it has carved a niche for itself, captivating the audience through its distinct narrative style, making it a fascinating watch for vintage horror film enthusiasts.