Back in 1981 two classic werewolf movies were released, An American Werewolf In London (directed by John Landis) and The Howling (directed by Joe Dante). Both directors have more than earned their place in the horror pantheon for these works alone, and they would continue to contribute to the genre (Innocent Blood, Gremlins etc…).

What’s interesting about both of these 1981 films is that they’ve never really been topped in their sub-genre. When you ask someone what their favorite modern werewolf film is, they’ll usually say either Howling or AWIL. Also, it’s more likely than not that they will immediately volunteer why they prefer their choice over the other film, such is the nature of the rivalry between the two works. While both movies have their merits, I prefer AWIL on pretty much all counts (its transformation sequence outdoes some admittedly very impressive work in The Howling as well), which is funny considering I’m a Joe Dante fanatic.

But what about the trailers? Pretend (if you can) that you’ve never seen these films – which piece of marketing speaks to you the most? If you had to see only one movie, which would you choose? Check them both out and VOTE in our POLL below!