An American Werewolf in London Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "An American Werewolf in London" presents a VC-1 encoded 1080p transfer (1.85:1), which, while not perfect, is the best the film has looked yet. The age of the film and the original film stock used contribute to its inherently scrappy and grainy aesthetic, which some may find off-putting. Despite rumors of a brand new high-definition print, the transfer appears to have been derived from the same source as prior HD editions. Nonetheless, the presentation is slightly cleaner and more detailed, with subdued grain levels that improve the overall viewing experience. Noteworthy enhancements include tighter resolved information and a more stable appearance in scenes such as those set in The Slaughtered Lamb, where background details like the bottles behind the bar and dartboard are sharper.

The transfer excels in color rendition and shadow detail, particularly when compared to older VHS and LaserDisc editions. The colors are bolder and more vivid, especially the reds and greens, lending a fresh vibrancy to David's red parka and the gorier moments. However, black levels remain problematic, occasionally appearing crushed or washed out in darker scenes, notably during Jack's visit to David at the nurse's flat. Midway through the film, as the setting transitions from the moors to London, grain remains but with improved clarity and finer textures evident in close-ups. Skin tones are accurate, maintaining a natural look without veering into overly rosy hues.

Contrast has seen a slight ramp-up, enhancing night-time sequences such as the early scenes on the moors and the chaotic city streets during the climax. These improvements contribute to a reasonably defined rendering of moonlight, rain, and other details. While there are still minor flaws like scratches and edge enhancement around horizons, they are not overly distracting. This Blu-ray release strikes a balance between preserving the film's original gritty charm and offering a cleaner, more detailed viewing experience. Overall, it represents a significant improvement over previous releases, making it a must-have for fans despite its limitations.

The audio presentation of "An American Werewolf in London" on Blu-ray features a full lossless DTS-HD MA 5.1 track, which marks a significant upgrade over its previous Dolby Digital and DTS editions. The surround mix, though not reinventing the wheel, dramatically enhances the film's original sound design, providing an appreciable step-up. The mix, while maintaining a primarily front-oriented soundstage, offers better width, positioning, and a more considerable bass presence spread across the speakers. Voices are clearer with natural tonality, though some occasional harshness or tinniness may be noted. Notably, Charles Bernstein's score benefits from this improved mix, delivering greater instrumental clarity and depth.

Surround usage is a significant highlight, especially during the film's iconic scare scenes. Thunder claps, fierce rainfall, and the guttural growls of the werewolf create a dynamic atmosphere, enhanced by detailed audio effects like police sirens and gunshots which sound more powerful than on previous tracks. However, while some effects are impressively steered around the room, there are moments where surround deployment feels limited. The sound of the werewolf's howl moving from front to rear left is impactful but could have benefitted from a more immersive 360-degree effect. Despite this, atmospheric elements like the thunderstorm and the creepy wolf howls contribute significantly to an engaging audio experience.

The dynamic range exhibits substantial bass during moon-themed tracks, and while some sound effects are jarring compared to the rest, they suit the horror genre. Dialogue remains crisp and intelligible for most parts, with only minor muffled mid-range lines. Though purists might bemoan the lack of the original audio track, this new DTS-HD MA 5.1 mix infuses new life into the film, ensuring an enriched and atmospheric auditory experience that complements John Landis' horror classic admirably.

The Blu-ray extras for "An American Werewolf in London" offer a wealth of material sure to delight longtime fans. From newly-produced features to classic archival material, this release leaves no stone unturned. The standout is Paul Davis' feature-length documentary "Beware the Moon," which delves deep into the film's production history and includes interviews with key cast and crew members. Complementing this are various interviews, nostalgic making-of features, and fun outtakes, capturing the playful spirit behind the horror/comedy classic. A majority of the content recycles previous releases but adds new layers of insight and detail, ensuring both new viewers and longtime fans will find something valuable.

Extras included in this disc:

• Beware The Moon: A comprehensive making-of documentary hosted by Paul Davis.
• I Walked With A Werewolf: Rick Baker on his career and work on the film.
• Making An American Werewolf in London: A vintage promotional featurette.
• Interview with John Landis: Insights from the director on the film.
• Makeup Artist Rick Baker on An American Werewolf in London: More from Rick Baker about his special effects work.
• Casting of the Hand: Footage from the hand-casting process for David Naughton.
• Outtakes: Fun behind-the-scenes moments without sound.
• Storyboards: Comparisons of storyboards to final scenes.
• Photograph Montage: Still photos set to Elmer Bernstein’s score.
• Feature Commentary with David Naughton and Griffin Dunne: A laid-back commentary track with the film's stars.
• BD-Live Functionality: Access additional content online.

"An American Werewolf in London" maintains its stature as a rare, successful blend of horror and comedy—a feat director John Landis accomplishes with finesse. Released in 1981, this film rivals contemporaries like "The Howling" and "Wolfen," standing out due to Rick Baker's groundbreaking practical effects, which earned him the first-ever Academy Award for Best Makeup. The plot kicks off with American backpackers David (David Naughton) and Jack (Griffen Dunne) stumbling upon the eerie Slaughtered Lamb pub, leading to Jack's fatal and David's maiming encounter with a werewolf. This sets the stage for a riveting tale of transformation featuring scenes that elevate both terror and dark humor. Landis' masterful use of foreshadowing and environmental storytelling, especially in the London Underground sequences, reinforces the film's atmosphere.

The narrative skillfully juxtaposes humor with horror, making the tension almost palpable. David's interactions with a decaying Jack—a spectral presence urging him to end his own life—introduce a unique, morbid levity. Despite criticisms of pacing and an abrupt conclusion, the film thrives on its character development and the credibility of its outlandish scenarios. David’s existential crisis and his tragic romance with Nurse Alex Price (Jenny Agutter) add emotional depth, ensuring audiences are invested despite the surreal premise. Furthermore, the film's depiction of Thatcherite Britain adds a socio-political layer, subtly enriching its narrative texture.

Technically, the film is a showcase for practical effects wizardry. Baker's work on the transformation scene remains unmatched for its visceral quality, outshining contemporary CGI. These effects, combined with Landis' knack for situational comedy and unexpected horror, result in a timeless piece. While some elements might feel dated now, "An American Werewolf in London" is still revered not just for its scares and laughs but for how seamlessly it integrates them, making it an essential addition to any horror aficionado's collection.

'An American Werewolf in London' remains a quintessential piece within the lycanthrope genre, maintaining its stature as a cult classic since its original release. The Blu-ray transfer, while revealing the film's age, successfully retains the visual and auditory allure with substantial clarity and detail. The high-definition upgrade breathes new life into John Landis' masterpiece, opening the door for both longtime fans and new audiences to revel in its unique blend of horror and comedy.

The Blu-ray edition comes packed with an array of special features that are sure to delight enthusiasts. The inclusion of a newly-produced documentary adds significant value, offering fresh insights into the film’s production and legacy. Additionally, a comprehensive suite of ported-over supplements from previous editions ensures a holistic viewing experience. This release does justice to the film’s historical importance and provides an enriching context that enhances appreciation of the narrative and technical elements.

While there have been a handful of good werewolf films since 1981—such as Dog Soldiers—'An American Werewolf in London' remains among the finest in the genre. Though the film shows signs of aging, it stands out as an effective mix of comedy and horror, supported by commendable video and audio quality on Blu-ray. This disc is highly recommended, packed with a plethora of special features that will satisfy both collectors and casual viewers alike. Upgrading to this version is advised, even for those who already have previous releases.