John Landis

The Profile

American film director, screenwriter, producer, and actor known for cult comedies and genre-blending horror such as The Blues Brothers, An American Werewolf in London, and Trading Places.

Directed Michael Jackson’s Thriller; frequent collaborator with SNL alumni (Belushi, Aykroyd, Murphy); An American Werewolf in London helped inaugurate the Academy Award for Best Makeup (won by Rick Baker).

Reviews celebrate Landis’s blend of anarchic comedy, music, and genre-twisting horror. The Blues Brothers is hailed as instant mythology packed with iconic cameos and chases. Trading Places is praised as a beloved Italian Christmas staple. An American Werewolf in London earns kudos for atmosphere and groundbreaking makeup. From sketch chaos (The Kentucky Fried Movie) to black humor (Burke & Hare), the tone stays enthusiastic and admiring.