Teen Wolf (released in theaters on August 23, 1985) leaps onto the screen as a delightfully charming, high-energy fantasy comedy that turns classic coming-of-age growing pains into a fun werewolf spectacle. Directed by Rod Daniel, the narrative follows Scott Howard (Michael J. Fox), an average Nebraska high school student who is desperately tired of being ordinary and longs for popularity.
Scott plays on his school’s hopelessly terrible basketball team, harbors an unrequited crush on the popular girl Pamela (Lorie Griffin), and constantly overlooks the subtle affection of his loyal, longtime best friend Boof (Susan Ursitti).
Scott’s mundane life undergoes a shocking transformation when strange bodily changes manifest, culminating in the discovery that he can transform into an agile, fur-covered werewolf.
Terrified at first, Scott learns from his compassionate father, Harold (James Hampton), that lycanthropy is an inherited family trait. Encouraged by his eccentric, fast-talking best pal Stiles (Jerry Levine), Scott decides to embrace his inner wolf in public rather than hide it.
The furry alter-ego quickly becomes a sensation at school, transforming Scott into an overnight celebrity, a superstar basketball player, and the target of jealousy from rival player Mick (Mark Arnold).
However, as fame inflates his ego and alienates Boof, Scott discovers that popularity comes at a heavy cost.
Wanting to be valued for who he truly is rather than what he can become, Scott decides to bench the wolf persona for the high-stakes championship game, relying on his own human determination, teamwork, and heart to win the day.
Teen Wolf (Photo/Atlantic Releasing Corporation)
Reception for Teen Wolf
Teen Wolf grossed $6.1 million on its opening weekend, finishing second at the box office behind Back to the Future, which grossed $6.9 million on its eighth weekend.
The film would gross $80 million worldwide.
Teen Wolf Too was released in 1987 and starred Jason Bateman as Todd Howard, Scott Howard’s cousin.
Legacy
Teen Wolf‘s legacy endures as a defining pop-culture landmark of the mid-1980s, wildly celebrated for capitalizing on Michael J. Fox’s meteoric rise to global superstardom alongside Back to the Future.
Daniel’s lighthearted directorial touch, paired with Levine’s scene-stealing turn as Stiles and Mark Goldenberg’s upbeat soundtrack, helped turn the low-budget feature into a massive box-office hit.
The picture’s huge success launched a beloved franchise that spawned an animated TV series, a film sequel, and a hit television reboot decades later.
Teen Wolf is remembered as a timeless, heartwarming classic about identity, friendship, and self-acceptance.
