Night Howl

Night Howl is a gripping 2017 horror film that plunges deep into the supernatural realm, directed by Michael Taylor Pritt, who also stars in the movie. This mesmerizing narrative unfolds in an eerie and chilling atmosphere that all devoted fans of the horror genre will appreciate. It offers a new perspective on the werewolf sub-genre and is a creative endeavor that stands out for its unconventional storytelling and innovative direction.

The film engages us with the narrative of Kellen O'Reilley (played by Michael Taylor Pritt), a young man who is troubled by a traumatic past. An adopted child earlier abandoned by his birth parents, Kellen has always been an outsider with a sense of not belonging. As he transitions into adulthood, he grapples with haunting visions which thwart his ability to lead a normal existence. The film effectively captures the protagonist's vulnerability, his angst, and the nightmarish journey he is forced to undergo, offering more than a mere creature-feature horror movie.

Along with Kellen, the other intriguing characters included in the narrative are his foster sister Lily (played by Alana Mullins) and his close friend Brandon (played by Rob Pemberton). Even as their roles are significant for advancing the plot, they also add layers to the psychological aspects of the storyline. In particular, Brandon's character, with his light-hearted demeanor, acts as a robust contrast to Kellen's more somber and angst-ridden persona adding balance to the movie's darker themes.

The true power of Night Howl, however, lies in the unfolding of Kellen's creepy visions that increasingly compete with reality, ultimately leading him down a grim and disturbing road. The use of visceral imagery and sound in these scenes effectively generates a sense of unease in the viewer, immersing them completely into the world of the film. Night Howl expertly makes the shift from a psychological, character-driven approach to a full-blown horror spectacle.

Michael Taylor Pritt delivers a compelling performance in the lead role, masterfully embodying Kellen's emotional complexity. His multifaceted portrayal manages to evoke sympathy for Kellen, even as the narrative takes some brutal and violent turns. Pritt’s ability to render textured layers to his characters along with his acute directorial vision are among the primary reasons Night Howl shines as a unique and engaging horror, a testament to the versatility of this actor-director.

Alana Mullins, as Kellen's caring and supportive sister, successfully brings warmth and humanity to the eeriness that generally pervades the film. Her portrayal of Lily, who tries to unravel the mystery surrounding Kellen's unsettling visions, adds an additional element of suspense and intrigue to the film.

Night Howl successfully uses the werewolf concept as a metaphorical manifestation of the protagonist's inner traumas than just a mere entity of fear. It dwells deep into the psychological implications and makes use of the horror framework to narrate a story of alienation, denial, and eventual acceptance of individual identity.

Add to this mix, the well-executed special effects and makeup, which heightens the horror quotient of the film without overpowering its substantive narrative. This alone makes Night Howl an impressive independent film. It is professionally shot with the picture quality complementing the film's ominously dark narrative. The cinematography further aids the process by creating a perpetual sense of eeriness, thereby ensuring that the audience is on the edge of their seats.

In terms of sound design, the movie stands out. Rather than resorting to the cliche of overzealous sound effects often employed by horror films, Night Howl makes use of silence and subtly creepy sounds to heighten the intrigue and suspense.

In conclusion, Night Howl is an evocative horror film that uses the classic premise of a werewolf to explore deeper themes of individual identity and inner torment. With a standout lead performance by Michael Taylor Pritt, and solid acting from the support cast, it expands on the traditional werewolf narrative to offer an enticing and psychologically riveting horror experience. It's a must-watch for fans of the genre looking for something beyond standard jump-scare fare, offering a thought-provoking blend of horror and drama.