In 1981, a new category was added to the Academy Award Ceremony, and the first film to win an award in this category was "An American Werewolf in London." What was this new category?

The jaw-dropping werewolf transformation scene in "An American Werewolf in London" was so revolutionary that it literally changed the Academy Awards. The incredibly realistic and horrifying effects, created by legendary artist Rick Baker, showcased a level of artistry in practical makeup that the industry had never seen before. This work was a key reason the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences finally decided to formally recognize the craft, establishing a competitive category to honor such achievements.

The push for this new award had been building for some time. Just one year prior, there was a significant outcry when "The Elephant Man" received no nominations for the stunning and complex makeup used to transform John Hurt. The combination of that controversy and the undeniable mastery of Baker's work in 1981 was the final catalyst.

At the 54th Academy Awards ceremony, the brand new Oscar for Best Makeup was presented for the first time. Rick Baker took home the inaugural statuette for his groundbreaking work on "An American Werewolf in London," beating out the only other nominee, Stan Winston's work on the film "Heartbeeps." The category has since been renamed Best Makeup and Hairstyling, and it remains a testament to the artists who bring incredible creatures and characters to life.