THE BASEMENT BOOK SHELF: “The Werewolf Filmography” by Bryan Senn
Werewolves have always been my favorite type of monster, whether they are wolfmen or complete bipedal creatures. Though I am not a fan of the four-legged kind, like in AN AMERICAN WEREWOLF IN LONDON, gravitating more to they types seen in THE HOWLING and DOG SOLDIERS, the whole mythology of werewolves has always fascinated me.
Over the years there have been many books on werewolves, some exploring the mythology behind the creatures and others on the films that brought them into the limelight. From the horrific to the heroic, cinematic werewolves are metaphors for our savage nature, symbolizing the secret, bestial side of humanity that hides beneath our civilized veneer. Examining acknowledged classics like THE WOLF MAN (1941) and THE HOWLING (1981), as well as overlooked gems like DOG SOLDIERS (2011), this comprehensive filmography covers the highs and lows of the genre. Information is provided on production, cast and filmmakers, along with critical discussion of the tropes and underlying themes that make the werewolf a terrifying but fascinating figure.
This book, from 2017, features over three hundred movies, and being from McFarland, you know the quality is excellent. Each film is thoroughly researched, including making of information as well as important plot points and inspirations. Though in encyclopedia form, you may just find yourself reading this book cover-to-cover as I did. By doing this, not only did I find movies that I hadn’t, but wanted, to see as well as which films to stay away from.
This is a must-have addition to any horror movie library and I find myself referring to it often. Each entry is very informative and at times, very entertaining to read. I love the behind-the-scenes information provided, often with quotes from the directors or actors themselves.
The author, Bryan Senn, is no stranger to horror movies either. His work has appeared in many publications, including Filmfax, Cult Movies, Shivers, Midnight Marquee Press and Monsters from the Vault.
Don’t forget to read the other blogs in my BASEMENT BOOK SHELF REVIEW series. To order your own copy of this book, just click on the image below.
~David Albaugh
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