Revealing the Retro Magic of ’80s Werewolf Cinema: Origins of Pulp and Cheese

The Howling Good Time of "Werewolves"

In a world where digital special effects dominate the big screen, "Werewolves" is a refreshing blast from the past. This action-horror movie, now available for digital rental or purchase, is a love letter to the pulpy thrillers of the ’80s. Director Steven C. Miller, known for his work on "Marauders" and "Escape Plan 2: Hades," has crafted a film that’s equal parts homage and original take.

A Delightful Mix of Practical Effects

Miller’s immediate priority was to create as many practical werewolves as possible. He worked closely with effects maestro Alec Gillis and his team to bring forth an army of hulking, 8-foot-tall beasts that would lay siege to the world. The result is a visual treat that’s both menacing and awe-inspiring.

A Throwback to the ’80s

The film’s werewolf designs and plot are reminiscent of the pulpy midnight thrillers of yesteryear. One of the standout details is Frank Grillo’s character, a ripped-as-hell molecular biologist who’s one of the world’s premier experts in his field. This feels like a throwback to the ’80s action characters we all know and love.

A Director’s Passion for Practical Effects

Polygon spoke with Miller about his philosophy on practical effects, the details on how "Werewolves"’ creatures were put together, and the challenges that come with such an ambitious project.

A Director’s Passion for Practical Effects

When asked about his approach to practical effects, Miller said, "Look, my immediate priority was practical. How many practical werewolves can I put on screen? That was important. And then it became about how I could make them look as menacing as I can. Because I felt like the audience has seen that movie. Creating it in your brain, even though we’re only giving you little bits and pieces here, you can imagine what that other world could be, even if we couldn’t get there yet."

A Love Letter to ’80s Action Movies

This movie really harkens back to a certain era of pulpy midnight thriller, with the werewolves’ designs and the plot. One of my favorite details is ripped-as-hell Frank Grillo being one of the world’s premier molecular biologists. I love that. That feels like such a throwback to ’80s action characters. Did you grow up watching and loving those kinds of movies?

Grew Up Watching ’80s Action Movies

I grew up watching those for sure. I feel like I’m an ’80s kid at heart when it comes to movies, and I like cinema as far as where you were able to suspend your disbelief and just watch the movie and have fun. That’s what I did growing up, and that’s what those movies were. They didn’t care if the character looked the part, as far as being a biologist, but he was the guy that was going to save the day.

Werewolves: A Must-Watch for Fans of Practical Effects

"Werewolves" is a must-watch for fans of practical effects and ’80s action movies. With its blend of pulp and cheese, this film is a love letter to the genre. So, grab some popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the ride.

Watch "Werewolves" Now

"Werewolves" is available for digital rental/purchase on Amazon and Apple TV.

[Image: Director Steven C. Miller on the set of Werewolves]

[Image: Frank Grillo, wearing a sweaty tank top, strides forward next to a fence in Werewolves]

Photo: Todd Stefani/Briarcliff Entertainment