An American Werewolf in London – 1981

Synopsis

Two American college students on a walking tour of Britain are attacked by a werewolf that none of the locals will admit exists.

This movie was one of my first in the introduction to monster horror/comedy. One of the original monster movie classics, American Werewolf in London used amazing special effects that still stand pretty solid today. The art of creating a monster with costuming and camera tricks is what made this film so special. So, let’s get into it.

The film starts with two best friends on a hiking trip through the moors. As night falls, they end up at a pub called the Slaughtered Lamb. Upon entering, the room grows still. But soon, everyone is back to their evening follies. All is well, until Jack, played by Griffin Dunne, asks a question about a pentangle on the wall. The room stops again, and they are asked to leave. The two friends are taken aback but stroll into the night under the full moon. They were given a warning to beware the moon and the moors. Soon the friends find themselves in the wrong place at the wrong time. One of them is tragically slaughtered and the other is sent to London. Once there a number of strange dreams, visits and misfortune unfold.

This is just an opinion, but American Werewolf in London was the first to integrate comedy and horror seamlessly. It was a break from the tragedy and doom that awaited. What more can be said? This is a definite must watch for any Friday night monster movie fan.

Lachelle Redd is an independent author with works on Amazon. Her works include fantasy, horror and science fiction. In her spare time, she enjoys being with her kids and watching movies.