DVD Corner

Teen Wolf Season 2 DVD Review

“Teen Wolf” may have a devoted teen audience, but the show is unwatchable.

In the 12 episode season 2, Scott McCall (the “Teen Wolf” himself) becomes further drawn into the world of werewolves. Key plots in this season include: a major character becoming a Kanima (a werewolf-reptile hybrid), the death of several minor characters, two werewolf hunters (Gerard and Chris) with different moral compasses, major revelations about Lydia, Isaac, and Boyd, Alpha Derek and his pack, murders, the Kanima being controlled, lacrosse, Scott’s romantic ineterst Allison (who is becoming a werewolf hunter), and a big set-up for season 3.

If you grew up in the 80’s, chances are high that you saw “Teen Wolf” (starring Michael J. Fox). While the film is absurdly campy, it’s a fun comedy that has understandably become a cult classic over the years. Sadly, this new MTV series has very little to do with that film and more to do with cashing in on the success of “Vampire Diaries,” Supernatural,” “True Blood” and “Twilight.” Truth be told, I’d rather watch any of those over this show (yes, even the lousy “Twilight”). This new “Teen Wolf” sucks all the fun out of the original film and instead takes itself TOO seriously by being darker and more violent.

While teens may swoon over the young cast and the supernatural elements, it’s painful to watch for anyone outside of the target demographic. The show is littered with an eye rolling amount of shirtless teens, slow motion galore, modern songs (even dubstep tunes), cheesy make-up and f/x, clumsy dialogue, scripts without an ounce of originality, overstylized editing, and bad acting across the board (aside from “Battlestar Galactica” star Michael Hogan). To top it off, the writers have the audacity to include Lacrosse instead of basketball! Come on now.

Video/Audio:

Presented in 1.78:1, the show is moody, atmospheric and professional looking (which is more than I can say for most other aspects of the show).

The Dolby Digital 5.1 audio track does a fine job balancing the music, dialogue, and sound f/x.

Extras:
* Fox and MGM trailers.
* “Teen Wolf Season 2 At Paleyfest 2012”- A near 19 minute basic panel featuring Jeff Davis, Colton Haynes, Holland Roden, Tyler Hoechlin, Crystal Reed, Tyler Posey, and Dylan O’Brien. Discussions range from the stories of season 2 to stunt work.
* Commentary on “Omega,” “Raving,” and “Battlefield,” by Jeff Davis and Christian Taylor. The talkative duo chat about f/x, cast members, shots and scenes, etc. Honestly, there’s not much depth to these tracks as the Taylor and Davis mostly just praise the entire cast and crew.
* Teen Wolf CGI Reel and Fight Coreography Reel. A look at the CGI and animatics and a behind-the-scenes look at the fight stunts.
* 7 ½ minutes of alternate, deleted and extended scenes.
* “Alternate Stiles Takes”- Alternate takes of the annoying Stiles character in various scenes.
* An unfunny 3 minute gag reel. 
* “Shirtless Montage 2.0”- The title says it all.
* “Teen Wolves: Meet the New Pack”- A featurette about the new werewolf characters.

Summary: Teeny boppers will undoubtedly flock to “Teen Wolf,” but if you are outside that target audience, avoid this show at all costs and stick with the film. Heck, stick with “Teen Wolf Too” while you’re at it.

June 9, 2013 - Posted by nicklyons1 | DVD review | Teen Wolf MTV, Teen Wolf Season 2 DVD Review, Teen Wolf Season 3