WHEN GOOD WEREWOLVES GO BAD, A TALE OF TWO SEQUELS: PART OF THE BRITERION COLLECTION

 

    In the realm of cult horror films, there exist gems that transcend traditional notions of quality, drawing audiences into a captivating world of cheesy dialogue, questionable acting, and delightfully absurd plotlines. In this article, we embark on a lighthearted journey through the werewolf-infested landscapes of Howling 2: Your Sister is a Werewolf and Howling 7: New Moon Rising. Both films, despite their evident flaws, manage to captivate viewers with their enjoyably bad qualities, offering an experience that is equal parts baffling and entertaining.

    Both Howling 2 and Howling 7 embrace unconventional narratives that leave viewers simultaneously bewildered and amused. Howling 2 takes a sharp turn into the realm of the absurd, introducing the concept of a werewolf sister and weaving a tale that combines family drama with supernatural elements against the backdrop of medieval Europe. Meanwhile, Howling 7 introduces us to a peculiar Pioneertown plagued by werewolves, as the residents recount their experiences through a series of disjointed vignettes. These outlandish storylines, though far from cohesive, contribute to the films' charm as they embrace their own brand of wacky creativity.

    One cannot discuss the enjoyably bad nature of these films without acknowledging the over-the-top performances they offer. Howling 2 features an exuberant and at times cringe-worthy portrayal by the late Sir Christopher Lee, who seems to revel in the film's absurdity. The supporting cast follows suit, delivering lines with a level of conviction that blurs the line between earnestness and unintentional comedy. Similarly, Howling 7 boasts a cast of characters that embody the epitome of B-movie charm, with performances ranging from delightfully cheesy to downright comical. The performances, while lacking in traditional acting prowess, contribute to the films' overall campy appeal.

    When it comes to werewolf films, special effects play a pivotal role in creating an immersive experience. In both Howling 2 and Howling 7, the low-budget nature of the films becomes evident in the visual effects department. Howling 2's transformation sequences, though far from seamless, exhibit a certain charm with their practical effects and old-school techniques. In contrast, Howling 7 embraces its limitations and opts for unconventional choices, utilizing homemade werewolf masks and comically exaggerated fangs. These distinctive special effects, while undeniably flawed, add to the films' charm and evoke a sense of nostalgia for fans of B-grade horror.

    Howling 2: Your Sister is a Werewolf and Howling 7: New Moon Rising may not be cinematic masterpieces by traditional standards, but they offer a unique blend of enjoyably bad elements that make them cherished additions to the realm of cult horror. From their eccentric storylines to campy performances and quirky special effects, both films manage to captivate audiences with their sheer audacity and unapologetic embrace of their own flaws. So, for these reasons, both titles have earned their place in the Briterion Collection.