Wolfman’s Got Nards review: A documentary exploring the initial failure and subsequent cult success of 80’s movie – The Monster Squad.
Wolfman’s Got Nards review by Kat Hughes.
Wolfman’s Got Nards Review
Back in 1987, The Monster Squad arrived in cinemas. Unfortunately for the film, it released in the wake of The Lost Boys; many cite this as being the reason The Monster Squad performed so badly at the box office. Both were horror comedies, and both featured movie monsters, but whereas The Lost Boys stuck to just vampires, The Monster Squad utilised a range of Universal-era monsters.
Named after one of The Monster Squad‘s most memorable lines, Wolfman’s Got Nards is a documentary that explores every aspect of the now thirty-one year-old movie. The documentary film talks through the making, release, reception and revival of its subject. The interesting thing about The Monster Squad is that, unlike many films branded as cult, the filmmakers didn’t know straight away. Typically there’s instantly a subset of folks raving about a film, but with The Monster Squad it was much more of a slow burn and secretive. This lead to the cast and crew alike believing that there was genuinely no-one out in the world that got their film.
Wolfman’s Got Nards hones in on several years ago when the fans started coming out of the woodwork and demanding anniversary screenings. Now cast and crew play sold-out crowds across the world, including the UK’s very own Prince Charles Cinema.
Wolfman’s Got Nards Review
Featuring interviews with the film’s creators Shane Black and Fred Dekker, cast members and fans of the movie, both famous (Seth Green, Joe Lynch, Adam Green, Jackson Stewart, Graham Skipper and Zach Galligan) and not so famous. Each explains their first memory of watching the film and the impact its had on their lives.
There’s also a touching section that discusses cast member Brent Chalem. Chalem played Horace, most fan’s favourite character. Sadly, Chalem passed away in the winter of 1997 meaning he passed away never knowing what a cult phenomena The Monster Squad was. Such a personal touch obviously stems from director Andre Gower also being one of the original cast members (he played Sean).
Wolfman’s Got Nards is a film for anyone that is a fan of The Monster Squad. Within the documentary you will find a treasure trove of information. There’s also enough to keep those whom are not fans of The Monster Squad entertained as the film really does have a very interesting history. Wolfman’s Got Nards is a warm nostalgic look back at a film beloved by many. It celebrates fandom wonderfully and is a real thank you to the fans for their unwavering support through the years. Surely the best companion for your next viewing of The Monster Squad.
Wolfman’s Got Nards review by Kat Hughes, August 2018.
Wolfman’s Got Nards screened at Arrow Video Frightfest 2018.
