An American Werewolf in London is a 1981 horror-comedy film directed by John Landis. The story follows two American backpackers, David Kessler (played by David Naughton) and Jack Goodman (played by Griffin Dunne), who are on a hiking trip through the English countryside. During a stop at a local pub, they are warned by the villagers about the dangers of the moors at night and the existence of a werewolf.
Ignoring the warnings, the two friends venture out after dark and are attacked by a mysterious creature. Jack is killed, and David is left seriously wounded. He is taken to a London hospital to recover, and it’s there he meets the nurse, Alex Price (played by Jenny Agutter), who takes an interest in his well-being. However, David’s life takes a terrifying turn when he begins experiencing strange and gruesome visions, including conversations with his deceased friend Jack, who informs him that he is now a werewolf and will transform during the full moon.
As the full moon approaches, David becomes increasingly tormented by his impending transformation. His violent and bloody nighttime escapades in London create chaos and fear, leading to a gripping showdown in the city’s iconic Piccadilly Circus. Along the way, David must grapple with his newfound curse and its consequences while trying to protect those he cares about, particularly Alex.
An American Werewolf in London is known for its groundbreaking special effects by Rick Baker, including a memorable transformation sequence, which earned the film an Academy Award for Best Makeup. The movie masterfully blends elements of horror and comedy, providing a unique and enduring take on the werewolf genre. With a combination of suspense, gore, and humor, the film remains a classic in the horror-comedy genre and is a cult favorite among fans of the supernatural and the macabre.
