An American Werewolf in London

An American Werewolf in London

Year: 1981

Runtime: 97 min

Language: English

Director: John Landis

Horror

When two American backpackers stumble into a gruesome encounter with a monstrous wolf in rural Britain, their lives are forever changed. As one succumbs to his mortal wounds, the other is left to grapple with the terrifying reality of his own transformation - and the bloodthirsty monster he's destined to become under the next full moon.

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Timeline & Setting – An American Werewolf in London (1981)
Explore the full timeline and setting of An American Werewolf in London (1981). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The film is set in contemporary times, reflecting the late 20th century, when werewolf folklore was reimagined in cinema. This period was marked by a rise in horror films that fused traditional monster tales with modern societal anxieties, making it an era of exploration into the macabre.

Location

Yorkshire Moors, London

The Yorkshire Moors are expansive, rugged landscapes known for their haunting beauty and eerie atmosphere, famously associated with folklore and supernatural legends. London, a bustling metropolis, serves as a backdrop contrasting the tranquility of the moors, filled with historical landmarks and vibrant life, framed against the horror of David’s transformation.

🌄 Landscape 🏙️ City

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:47

Main Characters – An American Werewolf in London (1981)
Meet the key characters of An American Werewolf in London (1981), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

David Kessler (David Naughton)

David Kessler is an American graduate student whose life spirals into horror after being attacked by a werewolf. Initially portrayed as friendly and adventurous, his character evolves into one of tragic desperation as he grapples with the curse that transforms him into a monster. His internal struggle highlights the battle between his humanity and the beast within.

🧑‍🎓 Student 🐺 Werewolf 🌌 Tragic Hero

Jack Goodman (Unknown)

Jack Goodman is David's close friend, whose tragic death at the hands of the werewolf serves as a catalyst for the story's supernatural elements. His ghostly appearances provide crucial warnings and insight into David's fate, embodying the theme of friendship's enduring bond even beyond death. Jack's character transitions from a carefree companion to a harbinger of doom.

👻 Ghost 🤝 Friendship ⚰️ Tragic

Alex Price (Unknown)

Alex Price is a compassionate nurse who cares for David during his hospital stay. Her nurturing nature serves as a beacon of hope for David, providing a stark contrast to the horror surrounding him. As the story unfolds, her concern for David’s mental state highlights the emotional stakes, embodying love's struggle against darkness.

💉 Nurse ❤️ Love 😟 Concern

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:47

Major Themes – An American Werewolf in London (1981)
Explore the central themes of An American Werewolf in London (1981), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🌕 Transformation

The theme of transformation is central to the story, showcasing David's horrific metamorphosis into a werewolf. It symbolizes the struggle between human identity and primal instincts, emphasizing the loss of control and the impact of external forces on one's being. This duality raises questions about humanity, morality, and the darkness that lurks within.

💔 Tragedy

Tragedy permeates the narrative, particularly through the loss of David's humanity and the lives he takes during his transformation. The emotional weight of relationships, especially with Alex, highlights the sense of helplessness in the face of fate. The film intertwines love and horror, creating a poignant reflection on love lost to darkness.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:47

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