Cinematic Clash: Unleashing the Ultimate Werewolf Thriller Alongside Train To Busan

The impact of the setting is crucial in all genres, but it holds particular significance in horror films. Many stories have been created by taking an existing scary movie and altering the backdrop. Popular monsters such as zombies and werewolves are often incorporated into new locations. For instance, Paul Hyett's Howl and Yeon Sang-Ho's Train to Busan both feature groups of individuals battling insatiable monsters on trains. Surprisingly, these films share more similarities than one might expect.

Paul Hyett is most recognized for his exceptional work in special effects. He frequently collaborates with Neil Marshall and has contributed to the makeup and creature effects in noteworthy films such as The Descent, Centurion, and Dog Soldiers. Marshall's Dog Soldiers, an underappreciated masterpiece, is widely regarded as a cult classic werewolf film. Although Hyett has only directed two films since Howl, namely The Convent (which borrows heavily from The Nun) and Peripheral (a remarkably prescient 2018 body horror film influenced by Cronenbergian themes and AI art), his latest creation leaves audiences eagerly anticipating a sequel.

What is Howl about?

Howl depicts the journey of a group of passengers and employees on an overnight train in London. Among them is Joe, a train guard who has developed an unrequited infatuation with Ellen, the tea trolley girl. Despite being the only bright spot in his job, Ellen does not reciprocate his feelings. As the train approaches its final destination under the illuminated full moon, disaster strikes when it collides with a deer, causing it to dangerously veer off course. The driver is forced to venture onto the tracks to rectify the situation.

During this tumultuous event, the passengers named Kate, Adrian, Matthew, Billy, Nina, and a married couple named Ged and Jenny contemplate leaving the train and embarking on foot to reach the nearest station. However, their plans are foiled as emergency services are unable to access them. Just as they disembark, Joe and Ellen stumble upon the lifeless and bloodied body of the driver, compelling them to summon the others back. This ill-fated turn of events takes a monstrous twist as a colossal werewolf appears, viciously attacking Jenny and leaving the remaining individuals huddled within the confines of the train.

With Joe, Ellen, and the passengers now confined to the sturdy steel train, their only hope is to withstand the relentless onslaughts of the lethal creature. The windows are fortified, and the roof impenetrable. However, they soon realize that their communication options are severed, as the train's antenna has been destroyed, rendering them unable to seek outside help through their cell phones. Amidst the chaos, Nina manages to establish a signal, causing her phone to ring. Tragically, before she can answer, the malevolent beast snatches her through an unprotected window.

In order to confront and combat the ferocious werewolf, the remaining passengers decide to isolate themselves within the middle compartment of the train, fortifying every available entrance and window. As the threat looms, this tense and confined horror narrative portrays the strangers' struggle to unite against an imminent and deadly adversary.

Howl and Train to Busan, Compared

Yeon Sang-ho's Train to Busan arrived right on the heels of the zombie frenzy that had taken over the horror genre. While its concept was simple, its execution was brilliantly done. The movie tracks a small band of passengers aboard a high-speed train in South Korea, reminiscent of Howl in terms of the claustrophobic terror experienced when trapped on a train with horrifying creatures. However, the difference lies in the writing, which elevates Busan while weakening Howl. Train to Busan is not merely a run-of-the-mill zombie apocalypse action horror film; it delves into the themes of class struggle and corporate responsibility with an unwavering determination. Its message is wielded like a powerful sledgehammer, offering a nuanced and intelligent storyline. In contrast, Howl faintly touches upon gender dynamics and the mistreatment of women in service industries, but it fails to build its narrative around these themes. Consequently, Howl is relegated to the shelves of B-movie rentals while Train to Busan soars among the upper echelons of modern horror cinema.

How does Howl end?

After barricading themselves, Joe, Ellen, and the passengers manage to kill the werewolf. Sadly, Paul tragically loses his life in the bathroom. The werewolf's dying howl awakens its packs, who launch a coordinated attack. Adrian quickly realizes the danger they're facing and takes action by going after Jenny, aware of the possibility that she might transform into a werewolf. Joe restrains Adrian to prevent him from harming Jenny, even though she is displaying visible symptoms. The werewolves ruthlessly target and eliminate Billy, Matthew, Nina, and Kate. They swiftly board the train, causing panic among the remaining survivors. Jenny undergoes a terrifying transformation and viciously attacks Ged. In a brave act, Joe ends Jenny's rampage, saving Adrian in the process. Adrian expresses his gratitude by using Joe and Ellen as a shield against the approaching werewolves. Seizing an opportunity, Joe and Ellen manage to escape into the safety of the forest. However, Joe selflessly sacrifices himself to ensure Ellen's escape. Although Ellen manages to distance herself from the danger, Joe is forcefully turned into a werewolf. In an unfortunate turn of events, Adrian unknowingly wanders into the vicinity, witnessing Joe's tragic fate. As the film reaches its chilling conclusion, the werewolves turn their attention towards Adrian, capturing a haunting final shot.

Howl is a modest B-movie, but it achieves exactly what it sets out to do. Its characters are somewhat typical but endearing. The creature effects possess a unique charm. In contrast to Train to Busan, it serves as a testament to Yeon Sang-ho's masterful direction and Park Joo-suk's skilled writing. Howl does not strive to be anything more than it should. While its storyline may not be groundbreaking, the simple pleasure of witnessing strangers in a dire situation continues to captivate. Approach Howl with the expectation of an enjoyable monster flick, and it will deliver precisely what it promises.