An American Werewolf In London (EOTWS)

End Of The Week Shorts #5 extract: An American Werewolf In London (1981)

Unexpectedly amazing; surprisingly stupendous; quite brilliant. 

An American Werewolf In London is great play with a classical story and archetypal premise, one that creates a very unique blend of comedy and horror. Whilst there are huge tonal inconsistencies produced by the two conflicting genres, this is clearly the experiment that John Landis means to conduct throughout this narrative. Moreover, though this blend of genres isn't fine-tuned and crisply executed, this film has such an idiosyncratic character - one that is almost perfect in its own way. The only detail that is somewhat disappointing is the up-and-down quality of the sound design. But, beyond this, the idiosyncratic texture of this narrative overlaying the blend of American cinematic sensibilities and British aesthetics and acting (acting which isn't too good) resulted in a giddily good experience. 

So, add to this the great design work and practical effects and you have a quintessential horror film that needs to be seen by everyone.