I was a Teenage Werebear

I was a Teenage Werebear is an engaging 2011 comedy horror film. Masterfully directed by Tim Sullivan, the flick spins a unique and intriguing narrative that simultaneously sends an important societal message. The movie stars notable actors such as Sean Paul Lockhart, Anton Troy, and Gabby West.

At its most basic, I was a Teenage Werebear is a gleefully zany parody of the teen beach movies and the horror flicks of the 1960s, creatively combining these into a genre hybrid. However, it goes beyond this façade, tapping into relevant topics of queer identity and self-discovery.

The plot primarily follows Ricky (Sean Paul Lockhart), a high school student struggling with his secret attraction towards men, in a seemingly idyllic beach town where such feelings are still taboo. Ricky is a reserved individual fighting his urges until he encounters a rebellious newcomer, Talon (Anton Troy).

Talon is the stereotypical bad boy, complete with a leather jacket and an allure of mystery. After a chance encounter, the characters form a bond, which gradually takes a unique twist. Talon, as it turns out, carries a dark secret of being a werebear – a sort of lycanthrope identifying as bears instead of wolves. A series of events causes the secret to surface, affecting their friendship and the world around them.

The movie is supercharged with humor, satire, and slapstick comedy, making it a delightfully engaging watch. The reinterpretation of the traditional were-creatures as werebears adds an extra layer of intrigue to the movie. The horror element, though present, is significantly toned down to create a more light-hearted atmosphere, aligning with the beach movie genre it also seeks to embody.

I was a Teenage Werebear is notable for its courage in addressing homosexuality during an era when it was heavily stigmatized. The werebear here courageously serves as a metaphor for coming out of the closet. On this front, Ricky’s struggle with his identity and his resistance to the societal norms of his conservative beach town create a compelling narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

As well as examining societal norms and expectations, the film also spends a good deal of time spoofing horror and beach movie tropes. It's packed with seaside shenanigans, catchy musical numbers, tongue-in-cheek humor, and flirtations that dance on the border of horror and comedy. The characters themselves are an ode to the stars of those genres – their absurdities highlighted and their stereotypes fulfilled to comical effects.

Sean Paul Lockhart delivers an impressive performance as Ricky, a teenager grappling with his sexual identity amidst societal discrimination. Anton Troy’s portrayal of Talon is nothing short of brilliant. His charisma easily captivates both the audience and Ricky, driving the narrative forward. Gabby West, who plays Peggy Lou, the love-struck, hard-headed, stereotypical girl-next-door, adds a delightful dose of adolescent drama to the story. The performances of the support cast also enhance the overall experience and make the movie a worthwhile watch.

The film’s unique blend of genres, its take on societal biases, and the vibrant performances create a satirically nostalgic, dramatically exciting, and socially poignant tale. I was a Teenage Werebear delivers outrageous fun with its beachside antics, toe-tapping music, and teen drama mixed with its horror-centric plot.

Infused with bold color palettes evocative of 60s pop culture, the movie is striking visually as well. The energetic musical numbers are catchy, complementing the light-hearted tone of the film while echoing the beach-movie genre. Overall, the technical aspects of the film are thoughtfully designed to endorse its vibrant atmosphere.

“I was a Teenage Werebear” is a daring, comedic, and meaningful exploration of a young man’s self-identity and societal norms. It's satirical, poignant, and entertaining, combining diverse elements into one untamed, spirited cinematic ride. It's a must-watch for fans of any genre, given its unique blend and the messages it conveys. With its trippy humor, sentimental moments, gritty horror, and gleeful musical numbers, the film is a truly memorable cinematic experience.