kevinolzak Review of Scream of the Wolf

Scream of the Wolf (1974 TV Movie)

Weakest collaboration between Dan Curtis and Richard Matheson

[3/10 · 20 April 2024]

The 1972 ABC-TV movie "Moon of the Wolf" delivers a genuine werewolf, while its 1974 counterpart, "Scream of the Wolf" (telecast Jan. 16, 1974), fails in nearly every way despite its pedigree as another collaboration between director Dan Curtis and screenwriter Richard Matheson (previously responsible for "The Night Stalker," "The Night Strangler," and the Jack Palance "Dracula"). A series of gruesome murders appear to be the work of a wild beast that can obliterate its own tracks and leave no trace, the sheriff (Philip Carey) securing assistance from author and hunting expert John Wetherby (Peter Graves). Weatherby's more experienced associate Byron (Clint Walker) has a lifelong obsession with the thrill of the chase, believing that every animal is most alive at the moment of death, yet is curiously reluctant to join forces in confronting this new fiend. Curtis tries to build atmosphere by using point of view shots of the unseen creature as it chases down its terrified victims, but the final revelation simply makes little sense though the culprit is easy to spot. In a small role as Byron's servant is burly Don Megowan, remembered as the sheriff in Columbia's 1956 "The Werewolf," more effective in delivering chills than this soggy noodle. Peter Graves simply cannot deliver any emotional investment, unlike costar Clint Walker, who relishes every opportunity to taunt his old friend with the knowledge that the prey will always do the unexpected. Youngsters at the time must have been disappointed by the outcome, but the director's next ABC offering, "Trilogy of Terror," would prove to be unforgettable with its iconic Zuni doll.