Svengoolie’s April Lineup Includes ‘American Werewolf,’ ‘The Car’ & More to MeTV
April is here, and while spring is settling in, Svengoolie is keeping Saturday nights chilly with some classic horror films. This month’s lineup is a great mix of scares, including a werewolf classic, a killer car, and a behind-the-scenes style presentation from the Sven Squad.
Whether you’re tuning in for something familiar or looking to discover something new, there’s a little bit of everything on deck. Let’s take a closer look at what’s airing this April. All films air Saturdays from 8–10:30 pm ET/PT on MeTV, except for April 18, when House of Svengoolie airs from 8–10 pm ET/PT.
April 4: An American Werewolf in London
Universal/courtesy Everett Collection
Released in 1981 and directed by John Landis, An American Werewolf in London is widely regarded as one of the most influential werewolf films ever made. The story follows two American backpackers (Griffin Dunne and David Naughton) traveling through England, whose trip takes a horrifying turn after a brutal attack on the moors. What sets the film apart is its unusual balance of dark humor and genuine horror, something Landis intentionally leaned into following his earlier success with comedy.
The film is especially known for its groundbreaking practical effects, created by Rick Baker, whose work on the transformation sequence earned him the first-ever Academy Award for Best Makeup. Even decades later, that scene is still considered one of the most convincing in horror history.
April 11: The Car
Everett Collection
The Car arrived in 1977, during a wave of films that tapped into fears that everyday objects could turn deadly. Directed by Elliot Silverstein, the film centers on a mysterious, driverless black car that terrorizes a quiet desert town, seemingly choosing its victims at random. James Brolin stars as the local sheriff trying to make sense of the increasingly violent attacks.
While it was often compared to Jaws for its structure, replacing the shark with a supernatural vehicle, the film has built a cult following over time. Its minimal explanation for the car’s origins also adds to its eerie tone, leaving viewers with more questions than answers.
April 18: House of Svengoolie Presents: Parents
Everett Collection
The Sven Squad takes over this week with a House of Svengoolie presentation, offering a slightly different format from the usual broadcast. Featured is Parents (1989), a darkly satirical horror film directed by Bob Balaban. Set in the 1950s, the film follows a young boy who begins to suspect that his seemingly perfect suburban parents are hiding something deeply disturbing.
Starring Randy Quaid and Mary Beth Hurt, Parents blends psychological horror with social commentary, and over time, it has gained recognition as a cult favorite for its slow-building tension.
April 25: How to Make a Monster
Everett Collection
Closing out the month is How to Make a Monster (1958), a lesser-known but intriguing film. Directed by Herbert L. Strock, the film serves as a meta-horror story about a veteran makeup artist who, after being fired, uses his skills to turn actors into real-life killers. Featuring Robert H. Harris as the embittered artist, the film draws on the long history of classic monsters while offering an interesting twist on the genre.
Which one are you most excited about watching? Let us know in the comments!
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