A few thoughts: An incredibly flawed movie with flashes of brilliance, this is by no means one of Terence Fisher's best, but still has some solid cinematography, makeup, and pacing. Even though most of the movie doesn't feature any werewolf action at all, there's enough going on character-wise to keep this from becoming too big of an issue. The film is half over before the titular werewolf even shows up -- which is a shame, because Oliver Reed is (of course) brilliant in his first starring role. It's a bizarre and somewhat experimental approach, and it mostly works. Sadly, there are a few casting issues (particularly the romantic lead) and with the lack of werewolf scenes, you do become a little lost in the backstory and lore, forgetting at times what movie you're supposed to even be watching. The werewolf is unique looking, and I wish there was more of him, but thanks to Reed's physicality and intensity, he makes what little he's there for really count. Again, not one of the best Hammer films out there, but it's still solid and has some pretty grisly scenes. What more do you need?
Fans of Hammer who are interested in seeing how the studio might handle a werewolf story. Also, people who like Oliver Reed might want to check it out.
My grade: C+
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