Directed by
Christopher Leitch
Made by
Atlantic Releasing Corporation
Discover the intricate plot of Teen Wolf Too (1987). From unexpected twists to emotional highs and lows, this detailed summary breaks down every moment to give you a deeper understanding of the film’s story.
Todd Howard, portrayed by Jason Bateman, is the cousin of Scott Howard who has just secured a full athletic scholarship at Hamilton University thanks to the recommendation of Coach Bobby Finstock (played by Paul Sand), who also coached Scott during his high school days at Beacontown High. Finstock is optimistic that Todd possesses the family traits necessary to become a werewolf, which would give his struggling boxing team the edge needed to become champions.
However, Dean Dunn, portrayed by John Astin, has raised the stakes for Finstock as he pressures him to build a winning boxing team for the upcoming regional championships. Unbeknownst to Dunn, the only athletic endeavor Todd has previously engaged in is joining the marching band as a clarinet player. Finstock’s bold choice to recruit Todd ignites skepticism from Dunn, who is disappointed that Todd has yet to show any skill in sports.
As Todd’s Uncle Harold Howard (James Hampton) drops him off at college, Todd grapples with the impending anxiety of his first “Wolf-out,” a transformation he regards with embarrassment. Harold quells his fears by suggesting that the werewolf gene might skip generations. Settling into dorm life, Todd shares space with Rupert “Stiles” Stilinski (Stuart Fratkin), who, being Scott’s high school best friend, is well-acquainted with Todd’s “family issue.” Stiles decides to tweak Todd’s class enrollment, prioritizing courses filled with girls, and revealing a side of college life Todd has yet to explore. Their roommate, Chubby, currently holds the title of college boxing champion.
In a hilarious turn of events, Todd winds up intimidating a rude admissions lady (Kathleen Freeman) into granting him class changes after he inadvertently starts to exhibit signs of his wolf transformation. Though more passionate about animals and aspiring to become a veterinarian, Todd feels out of place as Finstock insists that he train for boxing. This leads Todd to a frantic realization that the scholarship he received stems from Finstock’s desperation, banking on Todd transforming during fights.
Throughout his journey, Todd also makes the acquaintance of Nicki (Estee Chandler), developing a growing friendship that blossoms into a date. The pressures mount during an alumni meet-and-greet when Todd experiences his first full-blown Wolf-out while attempting to dance with the alluring Lisa Goldfluss (Beth Ann Miller), who has been coerced into accompanying him. Faced with the ensuing embarrassment and ridicule, Todd battles the realities of his unique heritage. Stiles encourages him to harness his werewolf abilities while Dean Dunn threatens expulsion if Todd fails to secure a victory in his first match.
Supported by both Brooks and Nicki, Todd endures a rollercoaster of emotions as he continues to explore his identity. Nicki even offers a heartfelt kiss to boost Todd’s confidence as he grapples with feelings of shame. Yet, as he utilizes his new talents during a climactic boxing match, defeating his opponent in a remarkable display of agility, Todd earns admiration and acclaim. This newfound fame, however, taints his relationships as he begins to neglect his true friends in favor of popularity.
The divide between Todd and his supporters, including Chubby, who feels rejected, widens as he falls for Lisa—the college’s heartthrob. Nicki tries to open Todd’s eyes to the superficiality of his new acquaintances, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging those who truly care about him. The weight of his responsibilities begins to hit home when Professor Brooks warns Todd of the price of power, urging him to find balance and maintain his integrity.
Reconnecting with Uncle Harold, Todd gains clarity about the weight of his abilities, leading him to choose humility. With Nicki’s help, Todd realigns his focus towards both his academics and his relationships, demonstrating growth. He decides to face his championship bout against Steve “Gus” Gustavson (Robert Neary) as himself, disregarding the expectations set by Dean Dunn, who threatens to revoke his scholarship.
In a pivotal locker room confrontation, Dean attempts to intimidate Todd, asserting control over his ambitions. Yet, Professor Brooks reveals her own werewolf nature, instilling fear into Dunn. In what becomes a fight for self-identity, Todd, motivated by the love conveyed through Nicki’s expression, ultimately triumphs in the ring, reclaiming his sense of self amidst the chaos of admiration and fame.
Track the key events of Teen Wolf Too (1987) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.
Todd's Arrival at College
Todd Howard arrives at Hamilton University, feeling anxious about the expectations placed on him due to his athletic scholarship. Despite his lack of sports experience, he hopes to make a fresh start while navigating dorm life.
Coach Finstock's Ambition
Coach Bobby Finstock takes a gamble by recruiting Todd for the boxing team, believing he might inherit the werewolf traits of his family. Finstock sees Todd's potential as the key to transforming his struggling team into champions.
Todd's Initial Doubts
Todd learns that Dean Dunn is pressuring Finstock for a winning boxing team, which heightens his anxiety. He realizes that his only prior experience with athletics was playing in the marching band, not exactly the foundation for a boxing career.
Roommate Bonds
Settling into his dorm, Todd becomes roommates with Rupert 'Stiles' Stilinski and Chubby, the college boxing champion. Stiles encourages Todd to take classes that would introduce him to more girls, signaling a new phase in Todd's life.
Accidental Transformation
In a hilarious twist, Todd inadvertently showcases the beginnings of his werewolf transformation while negotiating class changes with a rude admissions lady. This sets off a chain of events where he begins to embrace his unique heritage.
Developing a Connection with Nicki
Todd meets Nicki, leading to an unexpected and budding friendship. As they grow closer, Nicki becomes a significant source of support for Todd amidst his internal struggles regarding his werewolf identity.
First Wolf-Out Experience
During an alumni event, Todd experiences his first full-blown 'Wolf-out' while trying to dance with Lisa. The embarrassing moment challenges his self-acceptance and brings out feelings of shame about his family legacy.
The First Boxing Match
Todd's debut in the boxing ring becomes a critical moment for his character development. Despite external pressures, he begins to harness his werewolf abilities, earning a surprising victory that elevates his status on campus.
Rise to Fame
With newfound popularity, Todd struggles to maintain his relationships with his true friends, especially Chubby. The allure of fame begins to overshadow the values and connections he previously held dear.
Professor Brooks' Warning
Professor Brooks cautions Todd about the responsibilities that come with his powers. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining integrity and balance, urging Todd to reflect on who he truly is beneath the pressure of success.
Reconnecting with Uncle Harold
In a heart-to-heart with Uncle Harold, Todd gains insight into the true essence of his abilities. This discussion helps Todd wrestle with his identity and prepares him for the challenges ahead.
Facing the Championship Bout
Determined to reclaim his identity, Todd chooses to compete in his championship boxing match as himself, rather than rely on his werewolf traits. This decision marks a pivotal moment in his journey towards self-acceptance.
Confrontation with Dean Dunn
In a tense locker room encounter, Todd confronts Dean Dunn, who tries to instill fear in him before the big match. The situation escalates when Professor Brooks reveals her own werewolf nature, shifting the balance of power.
Triumph and Self-Discovery
In a thrilling conclusion, Todd triumphs in the boxing ring, discovering his true self amidst the chaos of fame and pressure. This victory solidifies both his athletic prowess and his acceptance of who he really is.
Lessons in Integrity
After the match, Todd realizes the importance of staying true to himself and the relationships that matter most. With Nicki's encouragement, he commits to both his studies and friendships, showcasing personal growth.
Meet the characters that bring Teen Wolf Too (1987) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.
Todd Howard (Jason Bateman)
Todd Howard is a well-meaning but confused young man coming to terms with his werewolf lineage while pursuing boxing at university. He faces numerous pressures from friends, family, and faculty to excel, even as he grapples with his true passions and identity. Todd's growth throughout the film illustrates a journey of self-discovery, urging him to seek balance between ambition and authenticity.
Nicki (Estee Chandler)
Nicki is a supportive and perceptive character who plays a crucial role in Todd's development. She offers him encouragement and a sense of normalcy as he struggles with his newfound fame and abilities. As their bond grows, Nicki serves as a reminder for Todd to appreciate those who truly care about him, challenging him to recognize the superficial nature of his new popularity.
Chubby
Chubby is Todd's roommate and the reigning college boxing champion, providing both comic relief and a grounded perspective on the pressures surrounding Todd. His character underscores the theme of friendship, as he feels neglected when Todd's priorities shift towards popularity and status. Chubby’s loyalty to Todd illustrates the importance of standing by true friends.
Uncover the settings of Teen Wolf Too (1987), from iconic locations to the time period that shapes its world. See how these elements add depth and context to the movie’s narrative.
Time period
The movie is set in a contemporary college environment during Todd's transition from high school to university life. This period emphasizes the pressures of youth, the pursuit of identity, and the search for acceptance within new social spheres.
Location
Hamilton University, Beacontown High
Hamilton University serves as the main backdrop where Todd Howard navigates the challenges of college life, competing in boxing while dealing with his werewolf heritage. Beacontown High, the high school he attended, is where his cousin Scott Howard's legacy was formed, influencing Todd's journey as he steps into a similar path.
Explore the core themes of Teen Wolf Too (1987). From its commentary on social issues to its emotional undertones, delve into the deeper messages woven into the film’s story.
🐺
Identity
The theme of identity is central to Todd's journey as he struggles with his werewolf heritage while trying to fit in at college. As he embraces his unique abilities, Todd learns the importance of staying true to himself amidst external pressures and expectations. His journey reflects the challenges many face when balancing personal desires with societal acceptance.
🥊
Competition
Competition is a significant theme in the film, embodied in Todd's experience in the boxing arena. The pressure to perform and win embodies not just the physical fight in the ring but also Todd's internal battle with his self-worth and identity. This competition serves as a metaphor for the broader struggles of adolescence and the quest for validation.
❤️
Relationships
Todd's relationships are complex and evolving throughout the film as he navigates friendship, romance, and loyalty. He learns that genuine connections, like those with Nicki and Chubby, often become overshadowed by the allure of popularity and superficiality. The dynamics of these relationships highlight the importance of loyalty and the reality of choosing between ambition and true companionship.
What's After the Movie?
Not sure whether to stay after the credits? Find out!
Check out our other apps:
Actors
Companies
Latest Movies
© 2024 What's After the Movie?. All rights reserved.