Howling: New Moon Rising

Howling: New Moon Rising, directed by Clive Turner in 1995, is the seventh part of the renowned horror film series, 'The Howling'. An integral appeal in the series has been the inclusion of werewolves as the main subject; and this installment is no different, interlacing the horror of these mythical creatures with elements of mystery and western setting.

In the warmed leather of the Hollywood boots of John Ramsden and Ernest Kester, alongside Clive Turner and John Huff, comes a story that sets out to keep you at the edge of your seat, coupling the eerie atmosphere of folklore with an enthralling storyline.

The plot gravitates around a strange, enigmatic stranger by the name of Ted, portrayed by Clive Turner. He drifts into a small, tight-knit town nestled somewhere in the heart of the southwestern desert. Ted instantly sparks curiosity amongst the town's inhabitants, all of whom are quite guarded about their shared history. This small desert town, populated with endearing and hospitable personalities, hides a dark secret that comes alive when the moon is full, and the night is silent.

John Ramsden, Ernest Kester, and John Huff play critical roles in deepening the intrigue surrounding the town of Pioneer Town. The trio delivers gripping performances, stringing along audiences towards the uncanny events that seem to follow the arrival of the mysterious Ted. This arrival belies a chilling reality that threatens to unearth the town's hidden dark history while invoking the age-old fascination with werewolf lore.

The landscape plays a crucial role in intensifying the drama in Howling: New Moon Rising. The arid expanses of the desert, juxtaposed with the tranquility of the small town, provide a thrilling backdrop to this tale. The isolated setting personifies the sense of desolation and eeriness that imminent danger brings while highlighting the lurking horror that reveals itself under the silvery luminescence of a full moon.

Clive Turner, besides playing Ted, also helms the director's role. His vision and craftsmanship are evident in the way he weaves a subtle blend of western ambiance with folkloric horror. The blend brings to life a narrative that explores forbidden territories, delving into the realms of horror and suspense. Turner's experience in the series’ preceding parts helps maintain continuity and familiarity, while at the same time, a fresh perspective on the traditional werewolf narrative. His embodiment of Ted leaves a memorable mark, striking a balance between charm and enigma.

Howling: New Moon Rising is more than a movie about werewolves and lurking horror. It is a testament to small-town dynamics, the intricacies of human interactions, and the mysteries that a collective past can hold. With situational humor and fascinating set of characters it portrays a real-life setting of a closely-knit community, yet never straying far from its emphasis on the supernatural.

The use of music, editing, and stellar cinematography, complemented with primal terror, ties everything perfectly together. The visually gripping scenes, including the transformation sequences, will send chills down your spine, and make your heart skip a beat, if not several.

Despite its entertainment value, this film might not be for the faint-hearted, as it doesn't shy away from exploring the macabre and grotesque facets of the werewolf mythology. However, for those who appreciate a good blend of horror, mystery, and a hint of comedy, Howling: New Moon Rising stands as a captivating experience. It poses an irresistibly enticing lure to fans of the genre, promising them a thrilling ride through its twisting, turning narrative.

In conclusion, Howling: New Moon Rising see-saws between the nausea of the unknown and the anticipation of discovery. The film is a riveting narrative that flexes its substantial grip over the audiences' attention, only letting go when the end credits start to roll. Its appeal lies in its nostalgic reflux to the werewolf lore, clever storytelling, the performances of the cast, and the director's clear vision of creating an unforgettable horror experience. This makes the movie a must-watch for fans of the horror genre, and more specifically, werewolf enthusiasts.