The Howling

The Howling is a bone-chilling horror film from 2017 that creatively reshapes the werewolf genre. Directed by Steven M. Smith, the film features Elizabeth Saint, Wendy Morgan, and other talented actors who provide captivating performances that keep audiences on the edge of their seats.

The story of The Howling unfolds in the quiet, seemingly serene landscapes of small-town England. However, this tranquillity quickly changes as the town's secret history begins to surface unexpectedly. The town was widely renowned for a murderous creature that famously terrified its inhabitants years ago. Although thought to be folklore and local myth by the new-age townsfolk, this beast seems to be far more realistic and menacing.

Elizabeth Saint plays the role of Elizabeth, a woman who comes to this town to escape from her tumultuous life in the city. Hoping for a fresh start, she is unaware of the terror that is about to unfold. Elizabeth produces a highly praiseworthy performance as the lead character, effectively blending vulnerability with immense strength as her character transforms from being an innocent newcomer to a fierce fighter.

As Elizabeth settles into her new life, strange occurrences begin. The townsfolk begin to act oddly, there are mysterious disappearances, and an unsettling howling sound echoes during the night. Even eerier is the fact that these incidents correspond with the full moon, subtly hinting at the classic werewolf mythology. These events propel Elizabeth on a path to unearth the mystery, setting the story's dark and menacing tone.

Wendy Morgan, who plays the role of Christie, Elizabeth's supportive friend, is exceptional. Her portrayal of a woman caught between loyalty to her friend and maintaining the town's dreaded secret leaves the audience in suspense.

What sets The Howling apart is its ability to blend drama, horror, and suspense in equal measures. Steven M. Smith takes the werewolf genre to a different level by placing a major emphasis on suspense and psychological fear. The movie doesn't merely resort to grotesque transformations and bloodthirsty killings. Instead, it builds up the terror by using sound - the titular howling - and a series of spine-chilling events that progress the plot and deepen the intrigue.

Aesthetically speaking, The Howling showcases Smith's deft handling of horror movie tropes. From the eerie fog-filled forests to the gloomy interiors, each set creates a truly haunting atmosphere. This aesthetic palette is backed by a suspenseful score that enhances the movie's terrifying ambience.

Furthermore, the special effects in The Howling are commendable. The use of sound and visual effects to create an eerie environment adds a realistic touch. The maker's attention to detail enhances the fear-factor without resorting to undue bloodshed or outrageous monster design.

On the whole, The Howling offers a thrilling narrative packed with suspense, horror, and well-paced drama. It relies heavily on a chilling atmosphere, realistic acting, and a well-narrated story to raise the tension and fear factor. The film pays homage to werewolf classics but puts a fresh spin on these elements by focusing on plot and character development over graphic horror scenes.

One of the movie’s main strengths is the way it keeps the audiences guessing. It ropes them in with an intriguing premise, gripping plot progression, and memorable characters, creating a thoroughly satisfying horror experience. It continues to maintain a suspenseful tone throughout, making it an intense werewolf film that horror audiences would appreciate.

Anyone seeking a werewolf film that offers non-stop suspense, an invigorating storyline, and a few frights, will find The Howling a satisfying watch. The film's narrative takes audiences on an unsettling journey into the heart of small-town horror, leaving no stone unturned. With great performances and excellent direction, it stands as a commendable entry in the werewolf sub-genre of horror movies.

In conclusion, The Howling is a horror movie with a difference, one that maintains the werewolf lore but strikes out in new directions overall. It offers viewers an intense, fear-inducing, and suspenseful cinematic experience that lingers long past the end credits.