The Enduring Legacy Of The Lost Boys: A Look At The Cast And Their Journeys

The 1987 flick The Lost Boys by Joel Schumacher told the tale of a young guy bullied into joining the dark side by a gang of vampires, while his comic nerd younger brother tries to save his soul. This film was not only a pivotal moment in the horror genre but also a launching pad for many of its cast members who became stars in their own right. In this article, we will revisit the film and explore what has become of its beloved characters and actors.

Why The Lost Boys Remains Iconic

There’s a slew of reasons why The Lost Boys remains one of the most famous vampire movies. For starters, the film was shot at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, offering an eerie circus vibe backdrop, and it featured a killer soundtrack that included Echo & The Bunnymen’s rendition of The Doors' trippy tune “People Are Strange.”

Additionally, the film’s mainstay was its cast members, some of whom would become prominent movie and TV heavy hitters, while others, sadly, would never shine brighter than their ‘80s teen legacy. The combination of a thrilling storyline, memorable performances, and a unique setting has kept this film in the hearts of fans for decades.

The Cast: Where Are They Now?

Take a look at where some of our favorite characters are now. Each actor's journey after The Lost Boys highlights the varying paths of fame and the impact this cult classic has had on their careers.

Kiefer Sutherland

Kiefer Sutherland was the “IT” Bad Boy in the mid-1980s, thanks to his unforgettable role in Stand By Me, which also happened to be his debut film. The son of distinguished actor Donald Sutherland, Kiefer changed schools often during his teenage years. However, it was on The Lost Boys that he began collaborating with director Joel Schumacher, leading to a series of successful projects including Flatliners and 24, where he gained massive acclaim for his role as Jack Bauer.

Jason Patric

Like Sutherland, Jason Patric also has acting DNA running through his veins. The Queens native is the son of Jason Miller (from Exorcist fame), and his grandfather is Jackie Gleason. His role as Michael, the older brother who is "hazed" into becoming a vampire in The Lost Boys, marked his feature film debut. In the ‘90s, Patric starred in significant films like Rush and Sleepers, showcasing his versatility as an actor.

Corey Haim

Corey Haim was synonymous with coming-of-age films in the ‘80s and was an acting veteran before his teenage years. He starred in Firstborn at just 10 years old and became a mega teen heartthrob alongside his friend Corey Feldman. Known as the "Two Coreys," they appeared in several films together. Unfortunately, Haim struggled with addiction, which impacted his career, and he passed away in 2010.

Corey Feldman

Corey Feldman played the eccentric buddy in many films, including The Goonies and Stand By Me. His role in The Lost Boys introduced him to a wider audience, but it also marked the start of his struggles with substance abuse. Despite the challenges he faced, Feldman has continued to act and even attempted a music career, releasing a memoir in 2013.

Jamie Gertz

Jamie Gertz was the quintessential “IT Girl“ in ‘80s movies and television shows. She was known for roles in The Facts of Life and Sixteen Candles before playing the half-vampire character Star in The Lost Boys. Gertz took a break from acting in the early ‘90s but eventually returned, guest-starring in various popular TV series.

Dianne Wiest

A successful theater, film, and television actress, Dianne Wiest has been entertaining audiences for over four decades. She began her acting career on stage and made her film debut in 1980. Wiest’s role as the clueless single mom in The Lost Boys was pivotal, adding to her already impressive resume that includes multiple Academy Awards.

Reflections on The Lost Boys

The legacy of The Lost Boys continues to resonate with fans and the film industry alike. Its unique blend of horror, humor, and coming-of-age themes has solidified its place as a cult classic. As we look back at the cast's journeys, we see a tapestry of lives shaped by a film that remains influential to this day.

Whether through triumphs or tribulations, the story of The Lost Boys reminds us of the power of cinema to impact lives and create lasting memories. As fans, we celebrate the film and the journey of its remarkable cast.