Please enable JavaScript.
Coggle requires JavaScript to display documents.
The Lost Boys (1987) - Joel Schumacher - Coggle Diagram
The Lost Boys (1987) - Joel Schumacher
Context
Was one of the first teenage vampire movies, updating and revitalizing the genre.
It achieved this by portraying the 'monsters' as cool, youthful rengades rather than eternal and weary old men.
This film could be seen as a sly satire on the 1980s American obsession with 'family values'
The film was released in the 1980s a decade characterized by it's youth culture, rebellion, and fascination with pop culture.
The film reflects the zeitgeist of the era, incorporating elements of punk rock music, teenage angst, and rebellion into it's narrative.
Additionally the film taps into the fears and anxieties of the time, including the AIDS epidemic, the rise of youth gangs, and the perceived dangers of countercultural movements
There are many stereotypical horror and particularly vampire movie conventions used through out the film.
Characters
Micheal
He is the protagonist of the film, initially portrayed as a typical teenager who becomes enamored with the mysterious star and ultimately falls victim to David's vampire gang, becoming a half-vampire himself
Michael's character represents the journey from innocence to experience, as he navigates the challenges of adolescence while confronting the allure of the vampire lifestyle. Hs transformation into a half-vampire symbolizes the dangers of giving in to temptation and the loss of one's humanity.
Michael's descent into the darkness drives the narrative forward, as he struggles with his new found bloodlust and his desire to protect his family propel the plot towards it's climax. His character's arc serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of succumbing to peer pressure and the importance of staying true to oneself
key message
Michaels transformation highlights the theme of identity and the struggle to maintain ones sense of self in the face of external influences. His journey represents the universal struggle to resist tempetation and make moral choices.
Sam
Sam is Michaels younger brother, a comic book enthusiast who teams up with the Frog Brothers to fight against the vampires and save his brother..
Sam's character represents the voice of reason and morality within the film, as he refuses to succumb to the temptation of the vampire lifestyle and remains steadfast in his determination to save his brother.
Sam's unwavering loyalty and bravery are instrumental in the fight against the vampires, as he rallies the other characters to join him in confronting the forces of darkness. His characters resilience and courage serve as a beacon of hope in the face of overwhelming odds, ultimatlely leading to the films resolution.
key message
Sam embodies the power of loyalty and the importance of family bonds. HIs unwavering determination to save his brother (even after he tried to turn him into a vampire) and protect his loved ones underscores the film's themes of loyalty and sacrafice
Lucy
Lucy is the mother of Sam and Michael, portrayed as a single parent who moves to Santa Carla with her sons after a divorce. she becomes romantically involved with Max, the local video store owner.
Lucy's character represents the struggles of single parenthood and the desire for companionship and stability. Her relationship with Max adds an element of romance to the film, while her unwavering love for her sons drives her actions throughout the narrative
Lucy's character serves as a grounding presence amidst the chaos of the vampire-infested town, providing emotional support for her sons and helping to guide them through their ordeal. Her relationship with Max also plays a crucial role in the films plot, leading to the revelation of his true identity as the head vampire orchestrating events in Santa Carla
key message
Lucy's relationship with Max serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of deception and the importance of looking beneath the surface. Her eventual realization of Max's true nature highlights the theme of trust and need to be wary of those who may not have our best interests at heart.
Star
Star is a mysterious girl who befriends Michael and Sam, revealed to be half-vampire working with David's gang. She struggles with her loyalty to David and her growing feelings for Michael.
Star's character represents the conflict between loyalty and desire, as she grapples with her allegiance to David and her growing affection for Michael. Her inner turmoil mirrors Michael's own struggle with his vampire nature, highlighting the complex moral dilemmas faced by the characters.
Star's character serves as the catalyst for Michael's transformation into a vampire, as their budding romance leads him deeper into David's web. Her eventual decision to help Michael and Sam fight against the vampires demonstrates her redemption arc and undercovers the film's themes of loyalty and redemption
could be seen as a stereotypical female character due to her appearance and reliance on men to save/help her when she is is vulnerable/dangerous situations
key message
Star symbolizes redemption and the power of love to overcome darkness. Her inner conflict between loyalty to David and affection to Michael reflects the struggle to break free from negative influence. However her choice to fight against the vampires demonstrates the importance of making moral choices and taking a stand against evil.
David
David is the charismatic leader of the vampire gang, exuding charm and danger. He tempts Michael with the allure of immortality and leads him astray, ultimately seeking to initiate him into the world of the undead
David's character embodies the seductive power of evil and the allure of the forbidden. His charismatic presence and persuasive rhetoric make him a compelling antagonist, as he manipulates Michael and others into joining him and his ranks.
David's influence over Michael drives the narrative forward, as he orchestrates events to further his own agenda and expand his vampire army. His characters ultimate defeat at the hands of Sam and the other characters represents the triumph of good over evil and the rejection of temptation and corruption - ideas that the vampire gang represented.
Elements of Film form
Cinematography
Captures the gritty, atmospheric feel of Santa Carla, with moody lighting and dynamic camera movements creating a sense of suspense and danger.
WIDE SHOTS of the boardwalk and the beach emphasize the town idyllic facade
CLOSE-UPS highlight the characters emotions and reactions particularly in moments of horror and tension
the use of HANDHELD CAMERAS and the UNCONVENTIONAL ANGLES adds to the film's sense of energy and immediacy, immersing the audience in the world of the story.
Mise-en-scene
Reflects the film's punk rock aesthetic with bold fashion choices, vibrant colors and eclectic set designs contributing to the overall visual style
costumes, particularly the leather jackets and spiked hair of the vampire gang convey a sense of rebellion and youth culture
props such as motorcycles and comic books add to the film's sense of adventure and excitement.
the town of Santa Carla serves as a character in it's own right, with it's dilapidated boardwalk, graffiti-covered alleys, and eerie caves providing a rich and atmospheric backdrop for the story
sound
The film's soundtrack features a mix of iconic 80s rock songs and original score by [], creating a blend of nostalgia and atmosphere.
song's like 'cry little sister' and 'people are strange' contribute to the films dark and moody atmosphere, while the pulsating electronic score underscores the tension and excitement of the narrative.
sound effects such as howling winds, creaking doors, and echoing screams enhance the films horror elements, while the use of silence adds tension and suspense during key moments of the narrative.
editing
emphasizes pacing and rhythm, with quick cuts and dynamic transitions keeping the audience engaged throughout
montage sequences are used to convey the passage of time and the character's emotional states
slow motion and freezeframes add dramatic impact to the action sequences and moments of revelation
the film's editing style is frenetic and energetic, reflecting the fast paced nature of the story and the characters' youthful energy and impulsiveness
Themes/messages
Youth rebellion
It explores themes of teenage rebellion and identity with the character's navigating the challenges of adolescence while confronting the dangers of the adult world. The film's portrayal of the vampire gang as a group of rebellious outcasts resonates with the teenage desire for independence and self-expression
Moral ambiguity
The film blurs the lines between good and evil, with characters such as Michael and Star struggling to resist temptation and make moral choices in the face of overwhelming pressure. The character of Max, who initially appears harmless but is ultimately revealed to be the head vampire, underscores the film's exploration of moral ambiguity and the dangers of making assumptions based on apperances
Family and loyalty
The bonds of family and friendship are central to the film, with characters like Sam and the Frog Brothers banding together to protect each other and fight against evil. The film's portrayal of the dysfunctional but ultimately loving relationship between Lucy and her sons highlights the importance of Loyalty and Family bonds.