Written By: Sam Santiago
If there's one classic movie monster we wish Hollywood would unleash more often, it's the werewolf. They never seem to get the same love as vampires. Sure, they're covered in fur, probably shed all over the furniture, drool a little too much, and we'd imagine flea treatments are a nightmare, but we've always had a soft spot for our lycanthropic friends. Thankfully, it looks like another werewolf is about to join the pack, and this one sounds like it's bringing plenty of laughs along with the bites.
According to Deadline, Amazon MGM Studios' Orion Pictures has picked up Howl, an upcoming werewolf comedy that will mark actor Kumail Nanjiani's feature directorial debut.
The film centers on a famous but deeply troubled actor who makes a shocking announcement during a live television interview. He reveals that in less than an hour, he will transform into a werewolf, live on the air. Whether the audience believes him or thinks it's another desperate publicity stunt remains to be seen, but the premise alone has us intrigued.
The screenplay comes from Madison Vanderberg, while production duties are being handled by an impressive lineup that includes Akiva Goldsman, Greg Lessans, and Rachel Wizenberg for Weed Road Pictures, alongside Nanjiani, Emily V. Gordon, and Dani Melia for Winter Coat Films.
While details remain under wraps, the combination of horror, comedy, and a real time transformation unfolding on live television feels like fertile ground for both laughs and genuine suspense. Werewolf movies have experienced something of a resurgence in recent years, but they're still far outnumbered by vampire films and zombie stories. That's a shame because, when done right, lycanthropes can be every bit as terrifying and entertaining.
With Kumail Nanjiani stepping behind the camera for the first time and Orion Pictures backing the project, Howl is already shaping up to be one of the more interesting horror comedies on the horizon.
We'll be keeping a close eye on this one as more casting announcements, plot details, and a release date are revealed. Until then, keep your silver bullets handy and maybe avoid any suspicious full moons.