27. A Horror Film That’s a Metaphor for Puberty

Directed by John Fawcett and written by Karen Walton, from a story they jointly developed, Ginger Snaps is the most puberty-referencing horror that I can think of. Brigitte and Ginger Fitzgerald (Emily Perkins and Katharine Isabelle) are death-obsessed teenagers who promise to run away before they turn 16. One night, Ginger’s period attracts a werewolf, which is soon run over by drug dealer Sam (Kris Lemche). As her wounds heal, she refuses to go to the hospital and starts to grow angry, beating up her bully, Trina (Danielle Hampton), and aggressively having sex with classmate Jason (Jesse Moss). Even when she gets a silver piercing, her wolf side keeps getting stronger.

When Ginger kills Trina accidentally, her sister helps her hide the body, but is shocked to learn that she’s killed a counselor and a janitor. However, the cure of monksblood has been created by Sam and is successful at turning Jason back into a human. However, is the bond between sisters stronger than the need to be human?

I’ve watched this several times and am always struck by how different it is than so many wolf movies, which are so often white men dealing with being infected. Fawcett would go on to create Orphan Black.

The strong performances by Katharine Isabelle and Emily Perkins are a major highlight of Ginger Snaps. Their chemistry is palpable, and their dedication to their roles is evident. It’s fascinating to learn that they auditioned on the same day, were born in the same hospital, attended the same schools, and were hired through the same talent agency. It’s almost as if they were destined to be in this film.

By the way, the PA voice that pages the Raimi brothers? That’s Lucy Lawless.