The Monster Squad (1987) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
The Monster Squad is a cult classic 1987 adventure-comedy-horror film directed by Fred Dekker. The film follows a group of kids who form a club dedicated to monsters and supernatural creatures. Their lives take a thrilling turn when classic horror villains, including Dracula, the Mummy, the Wolfman, the Gill-man, and Frankenstein’s Monster, come to life and threaten their town.
As the monsters unite under Dracula’s leadership, it’s up to the Monster Squad—a ragtag group of preteens with a passion for horror films—to save their town from impending doom. The film combines nostalgic elements with humor and horror, capturing the essence of childhood adventure and the classic monster movie genre.
Key Performances
Andre Gower as Sean Crenshaw
Andre Gower stars as Sean Crenshaw, the leader of the Monster Squad. Gower’s performance captures the enthusiasm and bravery of a young hero, bringing depth to the character of Sean. His portrayal helps anchor the film’s adventurous spirit and comedic elements.
Robby Kiger as Patrick
Robby Kiger plays Patrick, Sean’s best friend and fellow Monster Squad member. Kiger’s performance adds a sense of camaraderie and humor to the film, contributing to the group’s dynamic and the film’s overall charm.
Duncan Regehr as Dracula
Duncan Regehr portrays Dracula, the film’s primary antagonist. Regehr’s performance combines menace with charisma, making Dracula a memorable and formidable villain in the film.
Fred Dekker’s Direction
Fred Dekker’s direction infuses The Monster Squad with a blend of horror, comedy, and adventure, making it a fun and engaging experience for audiences. Dekker’s ability to balance the film’s nostalgic elements with its thrilling and humorous moments creates a unique and entertaining film.
Shane Black’s Writing
Shane Black’s writing contributes to the film’s witty dialogue and clever humor. The screenplay captures the spirit of classic monster movies while adding a contemporary and comedic twist. Black’s writing helps make the film both a tribute to and a playful parody of the horror genre.
Themes of Childhood Adventure and Nostalgia
The Monster Squad explores themes of childhood adventure and nostalgia, celebrating the excitement of monster movies and the bonds of friendship. The film’s portrayal of a group of kids facing supernatural threats taps into the adventurous spirit of childhood, making it a nostalgic and enjoyable experience for audiences.
What Works Well
- The blend of horror and comedy is well-executed, providing both thrills and laughs.
- The nostalgic elements appeal to fans of classic monster movies and childhood adventures.
- The performances by the young cast add charm and authenticity to the film.
What Falls Short
- The special effects and makeup may appear dated by modern standards, potentially impacting the film’s appeal to newer audiences.
- The plot’s simplicity might be seen as less complex compared to contemporary films, but it aligns with the film’s nostalgic and adventurous tone.
Where to Watch The Monster Squad Online
Amazon Prime Video
The Monster Squad is available for rental or purchase on Amazon Prime Video, offering streaming in HD or SD formats.
Apple TV (iTunes)
The film might be available for rental or purchase on Apple TV (iTunes), providing options for download and offline viewing.
Google Play Movies & TV
You can rent or purchase The Monster Squad on Google Play Movies & TV, accessible on various Android devices.
Vudu
Vudu offers The Monster Squad for rent or purchase in HD, providing high-quality streaming options.
YouTube Movies
The film may be available for rent or purchase through YouTube Movies, allowing streaming on any device that supports YouTube.
Conclusion
The Monster Squad (1987) is a beloved cult classic that combines adventure, comedy, and horror, directed by Fred Dekker and featuring a charming cast led by Andre Gower. The film’s nostalgic elements and playful take on classic monster movies make it a fun and entertaining watch. Available for streaming and purchase on various platforms, it is a great choice for fans of childhood adventures and classic horror.
