Silver Bullet (1985) Review

As a film enthusiast and collector, you might find that some films, regardless of their critical reception, hold a special place in your collection. "Silver Bullet," released in 1985, is one such film. It's a horror flick based on Stephen King's novella "Cycle of the Werewolf." Directed by Daniel Attias, in what remains his sole feature film directorial credit, the movie combines elements of horror with a touch of nostalgia typical of mid-80s filmmaking. If you're a fan of werewolf tales and Stephen King's unique blend of horror and humanity, this film is likely already on your radar.

Plot Summary

Set in a small American town, "Silver Bullet" follows the story of a young paraplegic boy named Marty, played by Corey Haim, and his older sister Jane, portrayed by Megan Follows. The peaceful town they live in is suddenly plagued by a series of grisly murders, with the local authorities struggling to find any logical explanation or culprit. Marty, with the help of his sister and their alcoholic Uncle Red, played by the indomitable Gary Busey, begins to suspect that the murders are the work of a werewolf. As the town's fear escalates, Marty and his family must confront their own fears and suspicions to uncover and confront the beast.

Performances

The performances in "Silver Bullet" are a mixed bag, but the film's strengths lie in its central characters. Corey Haim delivers a charming and surprisingly emotional performance as Marty. His portrayal of a young boy facing unimaginable fear while also dealing with his own physical limitations is heartfelt and earnest. Megan Follows as his sister Jane provides a grounded and protective presence, adding depth to the sibling relationship which is central to the film's emotional core.

Gary Busey, as Uncle Red, offers a performance that is both over-the-top and endearing. Known for his unpredictable energy, Busey manages to inject humor and warmth into the film, serving as a counterbalance to the horror elements. His chemistry with Haim is particularly noteworthy, and their interactions provide some of the film's most memorable moments.

Direction and Craft

Daniel Attias, despite this being his only feature film, handles the direction with a steady hand, capturing the eerie atmosphere of a small town under siege by an unknown horror. The film's pacing is relatively brisk, keeping the tension alive throughout its runtime. One of the standout elements is the film's special effects, which, while dated by today's standards, add a certain charm and authenticity characteristic of 80s horror films.

The music score by Jay Chattaway complements the film's mood, mixing suspenseful and ominous tones with a hint of melancholy. The cinematography, handled by Armando Nannuzzi, effectively captures the contrasting beauty and terror of the small town setting, enhancing the story's suspenseful elements.

However, the screenplay, adapted by Stephen King himself, occasionally struggles with some of the dialogue and character development. There are moments that feel slightly contrived, yet they are often overshadowed by the film's earnestness and the engaging core mystery.

Collector's Verdict

For collectors, "Silver Bullet" holds a certain appeal, especially if you're keen on Stephen King adaptations or 80s horror films. The best format to own this film is the Blu-ray version, which offers a clearer presentation of its special effects and atmospheric cinematography. Although it may not be the rarest item in a collector's catalog, it's certainly uncommon enough to be a prized addition.

"Silver Bullet" is a worthwhile addition to any horror collection, particularly for those who appreciate the unique storytelling style of Stephen King or have a penchant for the nostalgic charm of 80s horror films. As a collector, owning this piece not only fills a niche but also brings a bit of that mid-80s magic into your home.