In a monthly series at Forum cinema, we screen valuable productions for the youngest viewers. In May, our screen will feature a heartwarming adaptation, full of extraordinary adventures, of the first book in the series by Paul van Loon, “Alfie, the Little Werewolf”. It is the story of a boy who has loving parents and an older brother, yet feels that he is different. His suspicions turn out to be true. One night, the boy discovers that he is a werewolf!
This Dutch production shows in a friendly and natural way that being different is not a reason to be ashamed, but an opportunity offering new possibilities. The main character, Alfie, discovers on his seventh birthday that during the full moon he turns into a werewolf. He then gains extraordinary powers—he can run fast and jump, and he is strong. But he also devours his neighbor’s hens and looks like a beast. Alfie is ashamed of the changes taking place in his body. He feels like an outsider. He worries that his adoptive parents will stop loving him and get rid of him. He is also afraid of rejection by his schoolmates.
While watching the film, children easily identify with Alfie’s problems and empathize with his mixed feelings. The film’s hero copes well with his troubles and fear of rejection, which also reassures young viewers and gives them the conviction that each of us deserves the love of our loved ones, even if we feel different. The film’s extraordinary soundtrack is another asset.
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