She-Wolf of London (1946) | Directed by Jean Yarbrough

She-Wolf of London is a psychological horror-mystery film that follows a young woman who fears she may be responsible for a series of gruesome murders. Phyllis Allenby, living in Victorian London, believes she is cursed by the legendary “Allenby Curse,” which supposedly turns her into a murderous werewolf. As she experiences strange episodes and finds evidence of violent attacks near her home, paranoia and terror grip her. The film builds suspense as Phyllis questions her own sanity, leading to a shocking revelation about the true nature of the crimes.

Genre: Horror, Mystery, Thriller

Director: Jean Yarbrough

Jean Yarbrough was an American film and television director known for his work in low-budget horror films, westerns, and comedies. Born in 1901, he directed numerous B-movies for Universal Pictures, including horror films such as House of Horrors (1946) and The Brute Man (1946). Later in his career, he transitioned to television, working on popular shows like The Abbott and Costello Show and The Adventures of Superman. Though not widely celebrated, he had a prolific career in genre film making.

Star Cast:

  • June Lockhart as Phyllis Allenby
  • Don Porter as Barry Lanfield
  • Sara Haden as Martha Winthrop
  • Jan Wiley as Carol Winthrop
  • Eily Malyon as Hannah
  • Lloyd Corrigan as Detective Latham

She-Wolf of London was met with mixed reviews upon its release. Some audiences were disappointed by the lack of supernatural horror, expecting a traditional werewolf film, only to discover that the story was more of a psychological thriller. However, critics appreciated its eerie atmosphere and strong performances, particularly from June Lockhart. Over time, the film has gained some recognition as a unique entry in Universal’s horror catalog, offering a different take on the werewolf mythos.

Fun Facts:

  • Despite its title, the film does not actually feature a werewolf, making it an unusual entry in the werewolf film subgenre.
  • June Lockhart, best known for her later roles in Lassie and Lost in Space, plays the lead in one of her earliest major film performances.
  • The movie was produced as part of Universal’s B-horror films in the 1940s, which often had lower budgets but were still popular among horror fans.
  • The story draws inspiration from classic Gothic horror themes, such as family curses, psychological distress, and Victorian-era suspense.
  • The film was shot on a relatively small set, relying on fog and shadows to create its moody atmosphere.
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