American Werewolf in London is a classic horror flick that has been scaring audiences since 1981. Directed by John Landis and starring David Naughton and Jenny Agutter, the movie has become a cult favorite among horror fans.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the film is the presence of the Moors, which are referenced throughout the movie. But where exactly are the Moors in American Werewolf in London?
What are the Moors?
The Moors are a vast expanse of open land that stretch across northern England. They are characterized by their rolling hills, heather-covered moorland, and rugged landscapes. The Moors have a rich history and have been home to many different cultures over the centuries, including Anglo-Saxons, Vikings, and Romans.
The Role of the Moors in American Werewolf in London
In American Werewolf in London, the Moors play a significant role in setting up the story’s eerie atmosphere. The movie begins with two American backpackers named David Kessler (played by David Naughton) and Jack Goodman (played by Griffin Dunne) hiking across the Yorkshire Moors on their way to a quaint little village called East Proctor.
As they make their way across the desolate landscape, they encounter a group of locals at a pub who warn them to stay on the road and beware of the full moon. Of course, being naive Americans, they ignore these warnings and venture out into the moors at nightfall.
It’s during this ill-fated excursion that Jack is brutally attacked and killed by a mysterious creature while David is left badly injured. As it turns out, they were attacked by a werewolf who had been roaming around on the moors.
The Importance of Setting
The use of setting is crucial to establishing mood and atmosphere in horror films, and the Moors are no exception. The vast, desolate landscape of the Moors creates a sense of isolation and foreboding that permeates throughout the entire movie.
The use of darkness and shadows also adds to the eerie atmosphere, making it seem like danger could be lurking around every corner. This is especially true during the film’s climactic scene, which takes place in an abandoned tube station beneath the city streets.
In Conclusion
While American Werewolf in London may not be a perfect representation of life on the Moors, it certainly captures their essence and uses them as a powerful tool to create a memorable horror experience. The vast, rolling hills and rugged landscapes of northern England have been a source of inspiration for countless artists over the years, and American Werewolf in London is just one example of their enduring appeal.