Stuart Walker's Werewolf of London' (1935) is Universal's (and cinema's) first werewolf film. Solid and atmospheric, though not quite on the level of George Waggner's polished, star-studded The Wolf Man' (1941), Werewolf' has a fascinating story at its core. While in remote Tibet searching for a unique and rare flower (`that takes its life from the moon'), botanist Glendon (Henry Hull) is attacked and bitten by a werewolf (Warner Oland). Later, back in London, Glendon comes to the realization that he will transform into a wolf whenever the moon is full and attack those he loves.
Oland hits the mark as the enigmatic Dr. Yogami, the werewolf who passes the curse onto Dr. Glendon. On the other hand, Hull as the title character is credible but leaves something to be desired. Ultimately, these two werewolves of London' must vie for the flower, for it alone yields the antidote for the men's affliction. Though, as Yogami states, `It is not a cure.' Spring Byington (Aunt Ettie Coombes), Ethel Griffies (Mrs. Whack) and Zeffie Tilbury (Mrs. Moncaster) add welcome humor to the otherwise solemn proceedings. Recommended if for no other reason than to see where it all started. --- david ross smith
Oland hits the mark as the enigmatic Dr. Yogami, the werewolf who passes the curse onto Dr. Glendon. On the other hand, Hull as the title character is credible but leaves something to be desired. Ultimately, these two werewolves of London' must vie for the flower, for it alone yields the antidote for the men's affliction. Though, as Yogami states, `It is not a cure.' Spring Byington (Aunt Ettie Coombes), Ethel Griffies (Mrs. Whack) and Zeffie Tilbury (Mrs. Moncaster) add welcome humor to the otherwise solemn proceedings. Recommended if for no other reason than to see where it all started. --- david ross smith