Is Howl Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Howl is likely a skip if you enjoy Horror movies.
It features a runtime of 89 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Howl Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 2015, Howl emerges as a significant entry in the Horror domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of When passengers on a train are attacked by a creature, they must band together in order to survive until morning. Unlike standard genre fare, Howl attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Horror is often anchored by its ensemble, and Howl features a noteworthy lineup led by Ed Speleers . Supported by the likes of Shauna Macdonald and Elliot Cowan , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
In summary, our editorial assessment of Howl (2015) is mixed. With an audience rating of 5.5/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Howl Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Howl is a Horror film that crafts an atmosphere of dread and suspense, using psychological terror and visual scares. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Story Breakdown
The horror unfolds through carefully crafted atmosphere and escalating dread. When passengers on a train are attacked by a creature, they must band together in order to survive until morning. The film uses both psychological terror and visceral scares, building tension through what's unseen as much as what's shown. The pacing allows for breathing room between scares, making each frightening moment more effective.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: An unsettling prologue sets the ominous tone, hinting at the terror to come while establishing the rules of this world.
- Character Arc: Character development is present but somewhat formulaic, following familiar patterns without adding fresh perspectives to the genre.
- Climax & Resolution: The final act escalates the terror to its peak, forcing characters to confront the source of horror directly.
Howl Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Howl attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to horror resolution.
The conclusion addresses the core thematic questions, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the horror themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Howl reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Howl?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Horror films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
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Full Cast & Crew of Howl
- Ed Speleers – Joe
- Shauna Macdonald – Kate
- Elliot Cowan – Adrian
- Holly Weston – Ellen
- Amit Shah – Matthew
Top Highlights
Ed SpeleersJoe
Shauna MacdonaldKate
Elliot CowanAdrian
Holly WestonEllen
Amit ShahMatthew
Rosie DayNina
Ryan OlivaScar
Sam GittinsBilly
Calvin A. DeanPaul
Brett GoldsteinDavid
Where to Watch Howl Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
Lionsgate Play
Lionsgate Play Apple TV Channel
Lionsgate Play Amazon ChannelParents Guide & Age Rating
Howl has not been officially rated yet. Based on its genres (Horror), it contains frightening scenes, intense suspense.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.5/10, and global collection metrics, Howl stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2015 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Howl movie hit or flop?
Howl has received mixed reviews with a 5.5/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Howl worth watching?
Howl is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Horror movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Howl online?
Howl is currently available for streaming on Lionsgate Play. You can also check for it on platforms like Lionsgate Play, Lionsgate Play Apple TV Channel, Lionsgate Play Amazon Channel depending on your region.
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How Howl Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Howl
***Good “Werewolves on a Train” flick, but no depth or moral*** When a train in England is forced to make an emergency stop in a notorious forest, the passengers have to work together to survive the night against a pack of… werewolves. "Howl" (2015) is an English production that combines the werewolves of “Howling VI: The Freaks” (1991) and “Dog Soldiers” (2002) with the train survival situation of “Short Walk to Daylight” (1972); the British countryside and characters also bring to mind “Dog Soldiers.” While the plot is naturally reminiscent of “Horror Express” (1972), “Howl” isn’t really like that movie mostly due to the modern setting (the events in “Horror Express” take place just after the Victorian Era in 1906). It's an effective werewolf flick and good in many ways, but there's no meat on the bones. In the end it's pointless. But maybe that's the nihilistic non-message? There are three fairly worthy women, but the creators never really take advantage of their presence. The film runs 1 hour, 29 minutes and was shot Black Park Country Park, Buckinghamshire, England and London (train interiors and station). GRADE: B- (6/10
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