On August 21, 1981, the iconic film "An American Werewolf in London" was released in the United States. Directed by John Landis, this horror-comedy masterpiece revolutionized the werewolf sub-genre and set a new standard for practical special effects in cinema.

The film follows the story of two American backpackers, David Kessler (played by David Naughton) and Jack Goodman (played by Griffin Dunne), who are attacked by a werewolf while hiking on the moors of England. Jack is killed, but David survives, only to discover that he has been cursed to become a werewolf himself.

What sets "An American Werewolf in London" apart is its groundbreaking transformation scene, created by special effects legend Rick Baker. The scene, which depicts David's agonizing metamorphosis from human to werewolf, was achieved through a combination of prosthetics, makeup, and puppetry. The result was so convincing and terrifying that it earned Rick Baker the first-ever Academy Award for Best Makeup, a category created specifically to recognize his work on this film.

The movie also perfectly balances horror and comedy, with dark humor woven throughout the story. The ghost of Jack, who appears to David in increasingly decayed states, provides some of the film's most memorable and darkly comedic moments.

Landis' direction, combined with the strong performances from the cast, including Jenny Agutter as David's love interest, Nurse Alex Price, creates a unique and unforgettable viewing experience.

"An American Werewolf in London" has left an indelible mark on the horror genre and popular culture. It has inspired countless filmmakers, makeup artists, and special effects technicians, and its influence can still be seen in movies today. The film's enduring legacy is a testament to its innovation, creativity, and ability to entertain audiences for over four decades.