When a movie is called 'Bad Moon,' you know you're in for a howling good time. Released in 2005, this film was directed by Eric Red and offers a retelling of the iconic werewolf story. Set in the heart of America, it taps into some of the primal fears and fundamental truths that some would rather sweep under the rug. Yes, you guessed it. It's more than just a horror film; it's a movie that makes you think, question, and reconsider.
In our politically confusing times, films like Bad Moon challenge the status quo by stripping away the veneer of civility that many are too quick to cling to. The plot follows Ted, who is attacked by a werewolf during a trip to Nepal. He returns home to his sister Janet and her son Brett, bringing the curse back with him. The film is set in the USA, and using the quintessential American backdrop serves as a strong reminder that sometimes the things we fear the most aren't coming from overseas—sometimes they are right here at home.
Let's count down the reasons why Bad Moon deserves your attention and maybe even a spot in your DVD collection because let’s be honest, with the way things are going, Netflix could be next on the cancellation hit list!
Classic Horror Done Right: Eric Red manages to respect the tradition of werewolves while infusing the film with his unique style. It's a no-nonsense narrative, which nowadays feels like a rare commodity.
Solid Narrative Foundation: The storyline is straightforward but engaging. Not like the cerebral nonsense we are force-fed with no real substance. This is a film that masters clear storytelling.
Character Depth: Characters in Bad Moon have dimension. They make good decisions and bad decisions just like in real life. Ted isn’t merely a victim of supernatural tragedy; he’s an everyman fighting his internal monstrosity. Janet isn't the naive sister, either; she’s fully fleshed-out with her motivations, actions, and bravery. This cuts against the grain of current entertainment, which browbeats certain narratives into the ground.
Family Themes: Let's talk about family values. In the film, the family unit is both the source of strength and the source of conflict. It’s a complex relationship which is depicted very well. It’s not pushy, it’s not preachy... it's real.
Effective Cinematography: With solid camera work and beautiful shots of the haunting moonlit skies, this film balances atmosphere and plot beautifully. It's a visual treat in an era of CGI overload. Practical effects make every transformation suspenseful and believable.
Psychological Thrills: Rather than relying on gore or jump scares as many modern horrors do, Bad Moon delves into the psychological aspects of fear. The horror aspect isn't just about the supernatural—it's about the internal human struggle against identity and the beast within.
Dog Heroism: Let's give it up for Thor, the family German Shephard! He's not just any side character meant for comic relief or sentimentality. Thor embodies loyalty and courage, standing as a powerful line of defense between the monster and the family.
Subtle Social Commentary: If you're not too busy criticizing society to enjoy a good film, you'll notice how it takes subtle digs at current obsessions. Stray references and subtext wisely critique societal norms without shoving hyper-politicized messages down your throat.
A Masterclass in Tension: From start to finish, Bad Moon maintains an engaging sense of tension that pulls viewers in without making them feel anxious. It's nothing like the existential nerve-wracking garbage served up by many recent releases.
A Breath of Fresh Air in the Era of Insult: Films today lean heavily on antagonizing certain groups, alienating audiences, and lashing out at open-minded viewers. Thankfully, Bad Moon operates outside of those limitations, reminding viewers that stories can be both entertaining and respectful.
To wrap it up, if you've yet to see Bad Moon, what are you waiting for? It bites back at the mindless content that has become so commonplace. It's time to give it a watch. Consider this a warning and an invitation: Bad Moon is a film that shouldn't be ignored.