Werewolf movies are a subgenre of horror films that focus on werewolves—mythological creatures capable of transforming from human to wolf. These films often explore the duality between humanity and the animal side, as well as the inner conflict that ensues. In many cases, the main characters are werewolves who struggle to control their transformation or conceal their true nature from other humans.
The genre has evolved over time, moving from strictly horror portrayals to more romantic or even dramatic representations. For example, in older films, werewolves were often depicted as evil creatures to be feared, whereas in more recent productions, they are sometimes shown as complex heroes or protagonists, often with a strong romantic overtone. Werewolf movies remain popular because they blend various appealing elements, including mystery, romance, action, and suspense. This genre continues to attract audiences and has inspired many successful works.
Origins of the Myth of Werewolves
The myth of the werewolf has ancient roots and appears in many cultures and folkloric traditions worldwide. One of the earliest known references to a human-to-wolf transformation is found in Greek mythology, where the figure of Hecate was associated with this change.
In Europe, the werewolf legend was especially widespread during the Middle Ages, when the fear of transforming into a wolf was viewed as a divine punishment for sinful behavior. Werewolves were seen as evil creatures that attacked people at night, and countless folk stories emerged around this figure.
Over time, the werewolf myth has been adapted to different cultures and traditions. For instance, in American popular culture, werewolves have often been portrayed as solitary, melancholic beings who are seen as victims of their own power. The werewolf legend continues to be an important element of popular culture, constantly reinterpreted in art, literature, and, of course, in films.
The Werewolf in Literature
Werewolves have been central figures in literature for centuries, appearing in both folkloric legends and works of fantasy. In popular legends, they were typically viewed as evil, menacing creatures that terrorized communities and needed to be destroyed to protect villages. In modern fantasy fiction, authors have reworked the concept of the werewolf in many different ways.
For example, in some romance-centered stories, werewolves appear as tragic heroes or protagonists struggling to control their animal nature or hide it from humans. In other tales, werewolves symbolize the inner conflict between our human side and our baser instincts. A well-known example in literature is “The Wolf Man,” a short story published in 1941 by Curt Siodmak, which later inspired numerous works in the werewolf movie genre.
The Hound of the Baskervilles (1939)
It is a 1939 film based on the novel by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. The story follows detective Sherlock Holmes as he investigates the mysterious death of the last heir of the Baskerville family. With help from Dr. Watson, Holmes confronts the legend of a demonic hound allegedly seen near the Baskerville estate. The film is considered a classic of the mystery genre and was praised for its faithfulness to the original book and the performances of its cast.
The film centers on Sir Charles Baskerville, the last heir of the Baskerville family, who is found dead with signs of terror on his face. His friend and attorney, Stapleton, suggests that the death might be linked to the family’s curse, which involves a hellish dog stalking the Baskerville descendants. Sherlock Holmes is commissioned to solve the mystery and, along with Dr. Watson, travels to the Baskerville estate to investigate.
During their investigation, Holmes and Watson encounter a variety of suspicious characters—among them Stapleton and his sister—and uncover a plot to eliminate the final Baskerville heir. With clues from an old case, Holmes reveals the truth behind Sir Charles’s death, discovering that the supposed hellhound is actually a disguised man. Ultimately, the mystery is solved, and the perpetrator is apprehended.
The Wolf Man (1941)
This 1941 werewolf horror movie was directed by George Waggner. It stars Lon Chaney Jr. as Larry Talbot, who transforms into a werewolf after being bitten by a wolf. The Wolf Man introduced many iconic elements to the horror genre, such as turning into a wolf under the full moon and depicting the werewolf as half-human, half-beast. It greatly influenced popular culture and spawned numerous other werewolf films and stories.
The storyline follows Larry Talbot, who returns to his hometown in England following his father’s death. One evening, he rescues a woman being attacked by a wolf, killing the animal but suffering a bite. Later, he finds out that he bears the curse of the werewolf and will turn into a wolf-like creature when the full moon rises. The film revolves around Larry’s struggle to control his transformations and free himself from the curse.
The Undying Monster (1942)
“The Undying Monster” is a 1942 werewolf movie directed by John Brahm. This horror film follows an ancient family afflicted by a curse causing a monster to awaken periodically and kill. When the police get involved, they try to solve the mystery and end the killings. The film is considered a classic of 1940s horror cinema and is sometimes cited as an example of a gothic-style British film.
The plot centers on the Hammond family, who live in a remote castle on the Scottish moors. They are cursed by a monster that periodically awakens to kill. When police begin investigating a series of seemingly random murders, they discover the monster may be responsible. A young doctor with a personal interest in the story joins the police in their search for answers, delving into the dark secrets behind the Hammond family and the curse. As the investigation unfolds, the characters face increasing danger from the monster. Ultimately, the truth about the curse and the monster’s identity comes to light, but it may not be what anyone expected.
The Mad Monster (1942)
This 1942 werewolf horror movie was directed by Sam Newfield. It tells the story of a scientist who transforms a wolf into a monstrous creature and uses it to exact revenge on his enemies. Notably, it was among the earliest monster movies to use special effects, including real-time transformations. It is considered a classic of 1940s horror cinema and influenced many subsequent genre films.
The story follows Dr. Cameron, a scientist dismissed by his university. Enraged, he decides to take revenge by turning a wolf into a fearsome beast and deploying it to kill those he blames for his downfall. The plot thickens when Dr. Cameron’s son, Jimmy, discovers the monster and tries to stop it. Meanwhile, a group of bounty hunters aims to capture the creature for a reward. The film reaches its climax with a twist that surprises the audience.
Frankenstein Meets the Wolf Man (1943)
Released in 1943 and directed by Roy William Neill, this werewolf horror movie stars two iconic monsters: Frankenstein’s creation and Lawrence Talbot (the Wolf Man), again played by Lon Chaney Jr. The plot centers on Talbot, who seeks a way to break his werewolf curse. He travels to Transylvania, hoping Doctor Frankenstein can help him. The film is hailed as a classic of the horror genre and remains popular among fans.
The story begins with Lawrence Talbot being freed from his grave, where he had been buried alive. He soon realizes that the curse remains and the next full moon is approaching. Desperate to end his torment, Talbot heads to Transylvania in search of Doctor Frankenstein, who once created a legendary monster. He hopes to discover a way to dispel his werewolf nature. However, Talbot soon crosses paths with Frankenstein’s monster, which needs the beating heart of a werewolf to bring a new creature to life. As doctor and monster vie to control Talbot’s fate, the Wolf Man himself fights to rid himself of his curse. The film blends elements of both the Frankenstein and werewolf storylines, creating an intense horror experience.
The Monster Maker (1944)
“The Monster Maker” is a 1944 werewolf movie directed by Sam Newfield. It tells the story of a scientist whose “treatments” to enhance human strength instead turn people into mindless monsters. J. Carrol Naish, Ralph Morgan, and Wanda McKay star in this classic of 1940s horror cinema.
The plot revolves around Doctor X (played by J. Carrol Naish), a somewhat unhinged scientist who develops a serum to boost human strength. Unfortunately, his cures also cause unsuspecting victims to transform into subservient monsters. Doctor X then forces these creatures to commit crimes on his behalf. One of his patients, Marty Blake (played by Ralph Morgan), discovers the truth and vows to stop Doctor X and save the other victims.
She-Wolf of London (1946)
This 1946 film, directed by Jean Yarbrough, is a werewolf-themed horror/mystery about a woman who believes she may have turned into a wolf. As she seeks the truth behind her supposed transformations, she becomes entangled in mysterious murders that threaten both her life and her reputation. The movie was produced by Global Pictures and is considered a classic of 1940s horror cinema.
The story follows English heiress Phyllis Allenby (played by June Lockhart), who experiences strange dreams and nightmares suggesting she has become a werewolf. While attempting to uncover the truth, Phyllis is drawn into a series of murders in her neighborhood. Assisted by her boyfriend, attorney Barry Lanfield (Don Porter), she must discover who—or what—is responsible, all while fighting for her life and trying to prove her innocence. Filled with suspenseful twists, “She-Wolf of London” has retained its appeal for fans of classic horror.
I Was a Teenage Werewolf (1957)
“I Was a Teenage Werewolf” is a 1957 film directed by Gene Fowler Jr. This horror entry follows a troubled teenager who becomes a werewolf. Hugely popular in the 1950s and 60s, it is considered a cornerstone of werewolf cinema and contributed to the broader popularity of the horror genre.
The plot centers on Michael Landon’s character, a troubled teen who undergoes experimental therapy by a psychiatrist hoping to cure his behavioral problems. Unfortunately, the therapy turns him into a murderous werewolf. The film focuses on his descent into violence and the psychiatrist’s attempts to end his “curse.” It explores themes of inner conflict, loss of control, and personal responsibility.
Werewolf in a Girls’ Dormitory (1962)
Directed by Roger Corman, this 1962 werewolf movie takes place in a girls’ boarding school terrorized by a mysterious wolf-like killer. The plot follows a new governess who sets out to unmask the werewolf and protect the students. Featuring then-impressive special effects, this film became a cult classic of 1960s horror.
The story follows governess Marta (Barbara Lass), who arrives at the school for young women. When students begin to disappear, Marta grows suspicious. In collaboration with an investigator, she uncovers evidence that a werewolf is prowling the grounds. The film combines elements of suspense, mystery, and action as the monstrous creature strikes. “Werewolf in a Girls’ Dormitory” was celebrated for its gripping storyline and Barbara Lass’s performance.
Moon of the Wolf (1972)
Released in 1972 and directed by Daniel Petrie, “Moon of the Wolf” is a horror/thriller about a young man, a local sheriff, and a doctor who investigate a series of unexplained murders in a small Louisiana town. Their search for answers soon leads them to suspect a werewolf may be involved. The film received mostly negative reviews and was not a box-office success.
The plot focuses on a string of unexplained killings in a rural Louisiana community. A young man named David is enlisted by his friend, the local sheriff, to help uncover the truth behind the victims’ grisly bite marks. Evidence ultimately points to a prominent townsperson who might be a werewolf. With the doctor’s help, David tries to piece together what’s happening and come to terms with the werewolf’s true identity.
The Werewolf of Washington (1973)
Directed by Milton Moses Ginsberg, this 1973 horror comedy follows journalist Jack Whittier, who is bitten by a werewolf while on assignment in Budapest during the Nixon presidency. He struggles to keep his condition secret, even as he experiences vivid nightmares and is connected to a series of killings. Though criticized for uneven acting and a muddled storyline, the film has achieved a cult status from the 1970s era.
The story begins with Jack Whittier traveling to Budapest as a presidential envoy. There, he is bitten by a werewolf and begins to show signs of the curse—dangerous impulses and nightmares. Despite efforts to hide his predicament, Jack finds himself suspected of multiple murders. Meanwhile, he races to learn the truth behind his transformation and uncover those responsible for his curse.
The Beast Must Die (1974)
A 1974 giallo/werewolf horror film directed by Paul Annett, “The Beast Must Die” tells the story of a millionaire who invites five people—one of whom may be a werewolf—to his estate for a manhunt to uncover the creature’s identity. Mixing tension and suspense, it has gained a cult following and is considered a gem of the genre.
The plot revolves around Tom Newcliffe (Calvin Lockhart), a wealthy man who suspects one of the five guests at his home is a werewolf. Driven by revenge for his son’s death by a wild beast, Newcliffe organizes a weekend of tests designed to reveal the monster. As the group endures Newcliffe’s increasingly desperate tactics, the true identity of the werewolf eventually comes to light, forcing the host to make a fatal choice.
Wolf Guy (1975)
This 1975 Japanese werewolf film by Kazuhiko Yamaguchi is based on the manga series “Wolf Guy” by Kazumasa Hirai. It follows Aoshima, a man with the power to become a werewolf, battling criminals and other dark forces threatening his city. “Wolf Guy” has since gained a cult following in Japan.
The plot centers on Aoshima, the last surviving member of a werewolf family. Now an investigative reporter in Tokyo, he starts digging into a wave of mysterious killings and discovers they stem from a dangerous cult trying to summon a demon. Using his ability to transform into a wolf, Aoshima fights criminals and the cultists, determined to protect the city. The film merges action, horror, and sci-fi elements, and its anti-hero protagonist is well-known for using superhuman strength to defend the weak.
An American Werewolf in London (1981)
This 1981 horror-comedy was directed by John Landis. It focuses on two young Americans who are attacked by a werewolf while backpacking in England. One friend dies, and the survivor begins transforming into a werewolf at night. The film was lauded for its groundbreaking transformation effects and dark humor, solidifying its place among the great horror classics. It has influenced many later films and is frequently listed among the best movies of all time.
Two American friends, David and Jack, decide to go backpacking in England. While camping outside London, they are attacked by a werewolf. Jack is killed, and David, who survives a bite, begins to have hallucinatory conversations with his dead friend, who warns him to commit suicide rather than continue living with the curse. Meanwhile, David begins a romantic relationship, all the while grappling with the horrific truth that he transforms into a killer on nights of the full moon.
The Howling (1981)
Directed by Joe Dante, “The Howling” is a 1981 horror film that follows journalist Karen White, who seeks recovery at a remote therapy clinic after surviving an attack by a serial killer. There, she discovers a community of werewolves—and that her attacker may be one of them. The film was praised for its chilling atmosphere and creative special effects, becoming a commercial success and a cult favorite. It later inspired multiple sequels and copycat films.
Karen White, a TV reporter, is investigating a murderer known as Eddie the Mangler. After a traumatic confrontation, she goes to “The Colony,” a special retreat for stress management. She meets a therapist and other residents who behave strangely. As she recovers, Karen experiences disturbing visions and warnings from her fellow patients. She soon learns that the facility is a haven for werewolves—and that Eddie is one of them. On the next full moon, Karen joins the pack against a group of human hunters who want to destroy it, leading to a tense and violent showdown.
The Company of Wolves (1984)
Released in 1984 and directed by Neil Jordan, this horror-fantasy film is adapted from Angela Carter’s short story collection “The Company of Wolves.” It portrays a young girl’s awakening to the dangers of the world, symbolized by werewolves. The movie is celebrated for its surreal, dreamlike style and its symbolic retelling of the Little Red Riding Hood fairy tale.
The plot merges elements of folklore and fairy tales with a modern framework. A young girl in a rural village faces the threat of a wolf-like creature, experiencing surreal dreams and apparitions that reveal unsettling truths about human nature and evil. The film explores themes of fear, identity, and transformation.
Silver Bullet (1985)
Directed by Dan Attias in 1985, this film is based on Stephen King’s novella “Cycle of the Werewolf.” It follows a paraplegic boy who, together with his uncle, tries to stop a werewolf terrorizing his small town in Maine. The movie stars Corey Haim, Gary Busey, and Everett McGill. Critics praised the eerie atmosphere and strong performances.
Marty Coslaw is a young paraplegic who, with the help of his Uncle Red, investigates a string of gruesome killings. Soon, they suspect that a werewolf may be responsible, leading them to someone they already know. Armed with a specialized motorcycle known as the “Silver Bullet,” Marty confronts the creature in a tense final showdown, culminating in a fight for survival.
Wolf (1994)
Directed by Mike Nichols and starring Jack Nicholson, Michelle Pfeiffer, and James Spader, this 1994 werewolf film explores themes of human nature, transformation, and newfound empowerment. Nicholson plays Will Randall, a successful book editor who is bitten by a wolf and begins to exhibit signs of lupine metamorphosis. The film earned praise for Nichols’s direction and the lead performances.
Will Randall is a seasoned publisher who develops heightened senses after a wolf bite. While he initially finds these powers exciting, they soon fuel impulsive and aggressive tendencies that complicate his work and personal life. As he struggles to reconcile his human intellect with an increasingly feral nature, he faces cutthroat competition at his firm and a tricky romance with Laura (Michelle Pfeiffer). Ultimately, he must come to terms with his new identity and the moral consequences of his bestial instincts.
Bad Moon (1996)
“Bad Moon,” directed by Eric Red in 1996, follows a man who realizes he was bitten by a werewolf during an expedition in India. Upon returning home, he grapples with his deadly curse. The movie received generally poor reviews from film critics.
Ted (Michael Paré), bitten by a werewolf in India, returns to the U.S. to live with his sister Janice (Mariel Hemingway) and nephew Brett (Mason Gamble). However, he struggles to suppress the increasingly uncontrollable transformations that threaten his family. As Ted tries to protect his loved ones and seek a cure, tension escalates. The story builds suspense with each moonlit change, culminating in a dramatic confrontation between Ted and his savage side.
Werewolf (1996)
Released in 1996 and directed by Tony Randel, “Werewolf” stars Jason London, Ezra Buzzington, and Elise Neal. The story follows Will Kidman, who discovers he has been bitten by a werewolf, triggering transformations under the full moon. The film is regarded as a solid homage to the werewolf genre.
Will Kidman is an ordinary young man whose life takes a dark turn after he is bitten by a werewolf. Soon, he begins to change during full moons and finds himself pursued by other werewolves. He meets a supposed leader of the werewolf pack who claims Will’s father was also afflicted. Torn between his newfound identity and a group of werewolf hunters determined to eradicate the threat, Will struggles to understand his heritage, protect those he cares about, and survive an increasingly deadly conflict.
Dog Soldiers (2002)
“Dog Soldiers,” a 2002 werewolf film by Neil Marshall, combines horror and action. It follows a British Army squad on a nighttime training exercise in the Scottish Highlands, where they encounter a vicious pack of werewolves. Praised for its exciting mix of action, horror, and dark humor, the movie established Marshall as a notable genre director.
The plot focuses on a small group of British soldiers undergoing a routine training mission in the woods. They cross paths with survivors who reveal the area is teeming with werewolves. The squad bands together to fight the creatures through a harrowing night, realizing the werewolves are stronger and more dangerous than they ever anticipated. As they barricade themselves in a secluded house, each confrontation pushes them to use every bit of military skill and ingenuity to survive.
Cursed (2005)
Directed by Wes Craven, this 2005 American horror film follows Ellie (Christina Ricci) and her brother Jimmy (Jesse Eisenberg) as they uncover a supernatural affliction sweeping through their city. After they witness a car crash and are bitten by a mysterious creature, they both develop strange abilities. Critics gave the film a lukewarm reception, and its box-office performance was moderate.
The story begins with Ellie and Jimmy falling victim to a wild animal bite after a bizarre accident. They gradually realize that many city residents are transforming into beasts, tying in with a broader curse. Teaming up with a group of local teens who are also trying to survive, Ellie and Jimmy race to identify the root of this evil and stop it before it engulfs the community. The film revolves around their quest to contain the threat while grappling with their own transformations.
Blood and Chocolate (2007)
Directed by Katja von Garnier, “Blood and Chocolate” is a 2007 werewolf film that blends science fiction and horror. It follows Vivian Gandillon, a werewolf living among others of her kind in Budapest. When she meets Aiden, a human graphic artist, she faces a dilemma between her duties to the pack and her feelings for him. The film explores themes of identity, forbidden love, and the clash between different worlds.
Vivian is part of a secret clan of werewolves led by her influential family. Life takes an unexpected turn when she falls for Aiden, who is drawn to her artistic talents but unaware of her true nature. Their relationship triggers alarm within the pack, who fear Vivian’s involvement with a human could jeopardize their entire community. Meanwhile, a band of hunters is on the prowl, threatening werewolves everywhere. Vivian must ultimately choose between her love for Aiden and her loyalty to her kind.
Wolf Cop (2014)
“Wolf Cop” is a 2014 indie horror-comedy that follows a small-town police officer in Woodhaven. After a supernatural encounter leaves him part wolf, he juggles his new lupine powers with the need to solve a spate of grisly murders. Though praised for its dark humor and energetic style, some critics found the plot predictable and the acting uneven.
Lou Garou, jokingly nicknamed “Wolf Cop,” gains supernatural strength and heightened senses after a mysterious transformation. As local murders mount, Lou—along with his partner, Tina—investigates the killings, eventually uncovering a sinister conspiracy involving the town’s elite and a werewolf cult. With each full moon, Lou must balance his new bestial impulses against his sworn duty to protect his community.
Werewolf: The Beast Among Us (2012)
“Werewolf: The Beast Among Us” (2012) is a horror film that revitalizes the classic werewolf mythos with a unique blend of action and suspense. Set in a 19th-century Eastern European village plagued by mysterious deaths and animal attacks, the narrative centers on a group of werewolf hunters led by a seasoned tracker, as they confront a particularly savage beast. The film intricately weaves themes of fear, superstition, and the struggle for survival, illuminating the darkness that shrouds both the monstrous and the human. Drawing on atmospheric cinematography and practical effects, it pays homage to traditional creature features while introducing modern elements that appeal to contemporary audiences. Despite its mixed critical reception, the film has garnered attention for its engaging storyline and thrilling sequences, making it a noteworthy entry in the genre of werewolf cinema.
