Playing on Svengoolie tonight, Curse of the Werewolf

 Playing on Svengoolie tonight is “Curse of the Werewolf.” Hammer Studios is widely known for their gothic horror films, and one of their lesser-known gems is “Curse of the Werewolf.” Directed by Terence Fisher and released in 1961, the film tells the tragic story of Leon, a man cursed to transform into a werewolf.

The film is based on the novel “The Werewolf of Paris” by Guy Endore, but Hammer Studios made several changes to the story to make it their own. For example, the film is set in 18th century Spain instead of Paris, and Leon’s werewolf transformation is caused by a combination of a curse and a traumatic event in his childhood.

Oliver Reed gives a standout performance as Leon, perfectly capturing the character’s struggle with his inner demons and the fear and isolation that come with being a monster. The makeup and special effects used to transform Reed into a werewolf are also impressive, especially considering the limitations of technology at the time.

While the film is certainly a horror movie, it also has elements of tragedy and romance. Leon’s love interest, Cristina (played by Catherine Feller), adds an emotional depth to the story and gives Leon a reason to fight against his curse.

One of the strengths of “Curse of the Werewolf” is its use of symbolism. The full moon, the curse, and Leon’s transformation all represent the darker side of humanity and the struggle to control our impulses. The film also touches on themes of class struggle and the corruption of power.

Overall, “Curse of the Werewolf” is a hidden gem of the horror genre. While it may not be as well-known as other Hammer classics like “Dracula” or “Frankenstein,” it deserves recognition for its strong performances, impressive special effects, and thought-provoking themes. If you’re a fan of horror movies or just looking for a classic film to watch, “Curse of the Werewolf” is definitely worth checking out.