Episode
Teen Wolf (1985) | 80s Cult Comedy Werewolf Classic | VHSSB
- Podcast
- The VHS Strikes Back
- Published
- Apr 8, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 3608
- Processing state
not_requested
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Summary
Released in 1985, Teen Wolf was a low-budget teen comedy (around $1–1.2 million) directed by Rod Daniel and starring Michael J. Fox. Filmed primarily in California, the production leaned into practical effects, with extensive prosthetic makeup used to create the film’s now-iconic werewolf look. At the time of filming in 1984, Fox was already gaining popularity from Family Ties, but had not yet reached full movie-star status. The film became an unexpected box office hit, grossing over $80 million worldwide. Its release shortly after Back to the Future significantly boosted its visibility, helping turn it into a VHS-era favourite. While critical reception was mixed, audiences connected with its blend of teen comedy and fantasy, and it has since earned a lasting cult status, even spawning an animated series and later adaptations. TRAILER GUY PLOT SYNOPSIS In a quiet town… where high school is a battlefield… one teenager is about to discover that fitting in… is overrated. He’s not the star athlete. Not the popular kid. Just another face in the crowd… until something begins to change. Something wild. Something unstoppable. This year… confidence has claws. And when the full moon rises… one teen will learn that sometimes… embracing what makes you different… is the only way to stand out. FUN FACTS The film was shot in just a few weeks, contributing to its raw, fast-paced 80s energy Michael J. Fox’s werewolf makeup took several hours to apply each day The basketball scenes featured real players to help sell the action on screen The movie’s high school was filmed at John Marshall High School in Los Angeles, a popular filming location The “Beavers” team name was chosen to emphasize the film’s tongue-in-cheek humour The film’s success led to a 1986 animated Teen Wolf TV series The…