The Lost Boys

July 31, 2024

The Lost Boys: A Cult Classic That Redefined the Vampire Genre

Released 37 years ago today, on July 31, 1987, "The Lost Boys" remains a landmark in horror cinema. The film, directed by Joel Schumacher, ingeniously blended the horror and comedy genres while infusing them with a rebellious teenage spirit. Its unique approach to the vampire mythos and its memorable cast has solidified its status as a cult classic.

Plot Overview

The film follows the Emerson family's mother, Lucy, and her two sons, Michael and Sam, as they move to the fictional town of Santa Carla, California. The city harbors a dark secret: it's infested with vampires. As the brothers navigate their new life, Michael, the elder brother, gets drawn into the world of vampires after meeting the alluring Star and the gang led by the charismatic and sinister David. The younger brother, Sam, enlists the help of local vampire hunters Edgar and Alan Frog to save his brother and defeat the vampires.

Cast and Characters

Michael Emerson (Jason Patric): Michael is the film's protagonist, a teenager who struggles with his attraction to Star and his transformation into a vampire. Jason Patric, a relatively unknown actor then, was chosen for the role after director Joel Schumacher was impressed with his intensity and willingness to bring depth to the character.

Sam Emerson (Corey Haim): As Michael's younger brother, Sam serves as the film's comic relief and moral compass. Corey Haim, already a rising star in the 80s, brought a blend of humor and heart to the role, making Sam one of the most beloved characters in the movie.

Lucy Emerson (Dianne Wiest): The single mother of Michael and Sam, Lucy moves the family to Santa Carla to start anew after a divorce. Dianne Wiest, an Academy Award-winning actress, lent gravitas to the role, grounding the film's more fantastical elements with her performance.

David (Kiefer Sutherland): David is the film's primary antagonist. As the leader of the vampire gang, he is iconic. Kiefer Sutherland's portrayal blends menace with charisma, making David one of cinema's most memorable vampire characters. His performance has been credited with elevating the film's tension and allure.

Star (Jami Gertz): the enigmatic young woman caught between the human and vampire worlds. Jami Gertz, cast at Jason Patric's insistence, brought a mysterious and vulnerable quality to the character, making her a central figure in Michael's journey.

Edgar and Alan Frog (Corey Feldman and Jamison Newlander): Known as the Frog Brothers, these two are comic book nerds turned vampire hunters. Corey Feldman, already known for roles in "Stand By Me" and "The Goonies," portrayed Edgar Frog with a mix of bravado and comedic timing. Jamison Newlander played his brother, Alan, complementing Feldman's performance with his deadpan delivery.

Max (Edward Herrmann): Max is a mysterious figure who becomes romantically involved with Lucy. In the film's climax, his true nature as the head vampire is revealed, adding a twist to the story. Edward Herrmann's performance provided a sophisticated and unexpected layer to the film's narrative.

Grandpa (Barnard Hughes): Grandpa is Lucy's eccentric father who provides a surprising twist at the film's end, revealing a long-standing awareness of the vampires. Barnard Hughes' portrayal adds a quirky, humorous element to the film.

Memorable Quotes
"The Lost Boys" is filled with memorable lines that have become iconic. Some of the most famous quotes include:

• "Sleep all day. Party all night. Never grow old. Never die. It's fun to be a vampire." - This tagline captures the hedonistic allure of the vampire lifestyle in the film.

• "One thing about living in Santa Carla I never could stomach; all the damn vampires." - Delivered by Grandpa (Barnard Hughes) at the film's end, this line is a perfect mix of humor and revelation, encapsulating the film's blend of horror and comedy.

• "You're eating maggots, Michael. How do they taste?" - David (Kiefer Sutherland) says this to Michael during one of the film's most unsettling scenes, where Michael hallucinates that he is eating maggots instead of noodles. This line highlights the manipulative and psychological horror that the vampires use to torment Michael.

• "Death by stereo!" - Sam (Corey Haim) delivers this line after killing a vampire by electrocuting him with a stereo system. It's one of the film's many moments of dark humor.

Memorable Scenes
"The Lost Boys" is packed with visually striking and unforgettable scenes that have left a lasting impact on audiences:

• The Opening Boardwalk Scene: The film begins with a sweeping shot over the Santa Carla boardwalk at night, setting up the eerie yet vibrant atmosphere of the town. This scene introduces the audience to the vampire gang and the film's setting, which plays a crucial role throughout the story.

• Michael's Transformation: Michael's slow transformation into a vampire is depicted in a series of intense and hallucinatory scenes, including when he drinks blood from a bottle offered by David. This sequence is pivotal as it marks Michael's descent into the world of the undead.

• The Cave Showdown: The climactic battle in the vampire lair is a thrilling mix of action and horror, where the Emerson brothers, along with the Frog Brothers, take on David and his gang. The scene is suspenseful and showcases the film's excellent special effects.

• Grandpa's Final Reveal: The film ends on a humorous yet chilling note when Grandpa crashes his truck into the house, killing the head vampire, Max, with a wooden fence post. His subsequent comment about the town's vampire problem delivers one last punchline that leaves the audience smiling.

Critical and Fan Reception

When "The Lost Boys" was released, it received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised the film for its unique blend of horror and humor, as well as its stylish direction. Roger Ebert, for example, noted the film's "ingenious special effects and the ferocity of the vampire attacks," but he was less impressed with its plot, which he found lacking in depth.

On the other hand, many critics appreciated the film's ability to stand out within the vampire genre. The Los Angeles Times has lauded its modern twist on vampire lore and its appeal to younger audiences. At the same time, The New York Times appreciated its visual flair and effective use of the California coast as a backdrop.

Fans, however, were much more enthusiastic about the film. The movie quickly gained a devoted following, particularly among teenagers and young adults drawn to its rebellious spirit, memorable soundtrack, and charismatic performances. Over time, "The Lost Boys" became a cult classic, with audiences appreciating its blend of gothic horror and 80s pop culture.

Cultural Impact

Over the years, "The Lost Boys" has grown in popularity, becoming a defining film of the 1980s. Its influence can be seen in various aspects of pop culture, from the rise of vampire-centric media in the 90s and 2000s to the continued popularity of the film's soundtrack, which features iconic tracks like "Cry Little Sister" by Gerard McMann.

The movie's blend of horror, humor, and rock 'n' roll sensibility, along with its exploration of teenage rebellion and the allure of the dark side, has kept it relevant for new generations of viewers. The film's visual style, performances, and innovative take on vampire lore have solidified its place as a timeless entry in the horror genre.

In summary, "The Lost Boys" remains a beloved cult classic, revered for its unique take on the vampire mythos, stellar cast, and lasting impact on popular culture. As it celebrates its 37th anniversary, the film resonates with audiences, reminding us of the eternal struggle between the temptation of immortality and the reality of growing up.