THE WEREWOLF (1956)

Directed by Fred Sears

Starring Steven Ritch and Don Megowan

Not many of people remember this gem from the mid 50's about a man, found by two scientists in an auto wreck, that is injected with a serum that turns him into a werewolf.

By the mid-1950s, there were no werewolf films made since "Abbott And Costello Meet Frankenstein". Most of the "Universal Monster" stereo-types were replaced by science fiction quickies and giant insects. "The Werewolf" helped bring this movie monster back into the lime-light. No doubt 1957's "I Was A Teenage Werewolf" would had been made and maybe it's star' Michael Landon, would had remained undiscovered. Who knows. Ironically it played on the lower half of a double bill with "Earth Vs. The Flying Saucers".

"The Werewolf" is sharply directed by Fred F. Sears, an actor turned director whose experience was mainly in Westerns. The film does have that western feel to it. The make-up is reminiscent of the original "Wolfman" make-up that Lon Chaney. Jr. made famous. The plot, though obvious, is pulled off due to the strong acting of all involved. I find this as one of my favorite Werewolf films made.

-- Tony Bernardini

Available at Horror Theater Video (www.horrortheatervideo.com)