Released in theaters on August 21, 1981, John Landis’ classic An American Werewolf in London became the standard by which all subsequent lycanthrope films are judged.  Seriously, has there been a better werewolf transformation scene in cinema since?

Interestingly, mere days away from the film’s 35th anniversary, Bloody-Disgusting dropped a speculation piece indicating that the beloved classic was getting the remake treatment. Based on vague tweets featuring codenames for an upcoming project by screenwriter Max Landis (Chronicle, Victor Frankenstein), John Landis’ son, the horror news site stated the remake was a forgone conclusion with Max Landis penning a new screenplay.  It is, afterall, no secret that An American Werewolf in London is Max’s favorite of his father’s films, and one of the codenames was “Moors.” The connection stemming from the ill-fated characters from the original film being warned to “Keep clear of the moors.”

After a collective shattering of hearts across the Internet, the news spread fast and wide. Yet, is that really enough to take as confirmation that a remake is in the works? Well, if Max Landis has any say, then no:

And in response to a journalist:

That’s not just a “No,” but an emphatically definitive “no.”  While screenwriters, filmmakers, and actors have all lied to keep their secrets, I’d like to take Landis at his word here.  His strong denial and current slate of projects seem to indicate that, at least for now, we’re in the clear.

Phew! So until news of an actual remake is confirmed, we can sit back and celebrate the original’s 35th anniversary (trailer below).

Original Plot Synopsis
Two American college students on a walking tour of Britain are attacked by a werewolf that none of the locals will admit exists.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3uw6QPThCqE