The Werewolf Filmography: 300+ Movies

In this guide for horror (and B movie) fans, Senn (The Most Dangerous Cinema: People Hunting People on Film) focuses on "lycan-cinema" (all things werewolf). Besides highlighting films in which the werewolf is a main character, this volume also includes a "Pseudowolves" section (movies in which the werewolf has only a cameo) and other were-beasts (Cat People). The narrative is humorous in places, and the detailed entries are extensive, with synopses, descriptions of transformation scenes, and quotations from directors on the creative process. Senn concludes each article with information on the type of werewolf featured in the film (shaggy, wolf-headed biped, etc.) and how the creature meets its end; each flick also receives a "full moon rating." Reproductions of vintage film posters are dispersed throughout, and a helpful bibliography and time line add further appeal. Those interested in the topic will learn more than they ever thought possible. Memorable films such as The Wolf Man (1941), with Lon Chaney Jr., and An American Werewolf in London (1981) are examined, as are popular film series such as "Underworld" and "Twilight" and intriguing subjects, including female werewolves (the "Ginger Snaps" movies). Unfortunately, the "less than classic" films dominate, and some of the selections don't seem worth the analysis.