Teen Wolf Too (1987)

When it comes to 80s movies, sequels often have a tough act to follow. "Teen Wolf Too" is no exception, stepping into the shoes of its popular predecessor, "Teen Wolf", which had the charm of a young Michael J. Fox at its center. This time, the lycanthropic torch is passed to Jason Bateman in one of his earlier roles. Just like its predecessor, this film weaves comedic elements with a coming-of-age story, but does it stand out enough in the crowded field of 80s teen comedies to earn a place on our beloved shelves?

Plot Summary

"Teen Wolf Too" follows Todd Howard, played by Jason Bateman, who is the cousin of Scott Howard, the original Teen Wolf. Todd is an aspiring veterinarian who receives an athletic scholarship to attend Hamilton University. Unknown to him, his family’s unique genetic trait is about to manifest. The transformation into a werewolf brings Todd unexpected popularity and success in college sports, but also a host of new challenges. While the plot doesn’t break new ground, it mirrors its predecessor in exploring themes of identity and self-acceptance, albeit with a more comedic slant.

Performances

Jason Bateman takes on the mantle of the Teen Wolf with the kind of youthful exuberance you’d expect from an actor in his early career. He plays Todd with a likable charm, balancing the awkwardness of a college freshman with the newfound confidence of a werewolf athlete. While Bateman’s performance is enjoyable, it lacks the distinct charisma that Michael J. Fox brought to the original.

Supporting performances include Kim Darby as Professor Brooks, who adds a steady and quirky presence to the mix. John Astin as Dean Dunn is memorable for his comedic timing and animated expressions. The cast seems to embrace the campy nature of the film, which helps keep the tone light and fun, even when the script falters.

Direction and Craft

Christopher Leitch takes the director’s chair for this sequel. His approach appears to lean heavily into the formula established by the first movie, aiming to replicate its success. However, the direction doesn’t quite achieve the dynamic energy that made the original so endearing. The pacing of the film tends to drag at times, and some comedic sequences feel a bit forced.

In terms of production, "Teen Wolf Too" maintains the 80s vibe with its soundtrack and visual style. The special effects used for the werewolf transformation are typical of the era, offering a mix of practical effects that have a certain nostalgic charm. Despite not being technologically advanced by today’s standards, they contribute to the film’s quirky appeal.

Collector's Verdict

"Teen Wolf Too" may not have reached the iconic status of its predecessor, but it does hold a certain appeal for collectors who appreciate 80s cinema. The film’s charm lies in its nostalgic elements and the early career performance of Jason Bateman. For those who enjoyed the original or have a soft spot for 80s sequels, this movie can be a delightful addition.

In terms of physical media, the VHS format is the most fitting for a film like this. It was the primary medium during the time of its release and captures the retro feel of watching movies from that era. While not exceedingly rare, finding a good condition VHS copy isn’t as common today, making it a nice find for collectors.

Overall, "Teen Wolf Too" offers a slice of 80s nostalgia that, while not essential, is worth considering for its quirky charm and as a representation of the era’s sequel trend. It’s a film that doesn’t take itself too seriously, and for the right audience, that’s part of its appeal.