July 31: The Lost Boys (1987)

Milestone Years

• 40th Anniversary: July 31, 2027
• 50th Anniversary: July 31, 2037
• 75th Anniversary: July 31, 2062

Inspiration Behind the Movie

The Lost Boys was originally envisioned as a juvenile take on Peter Pan with vampires, but Joel Schumacher reimagined it into a stylish teen horror-comedy. The film took inspiration from the rising youth culture of the ‘80s and the growing popularity of vampire lore, adding a rock-and-roll, rebellious edge that helped define a new vampire aesthetic.

You Might Not Know

• The title is a nod to Peter Pan’s “Lost Boys,” kids who never grow up—just like vampires.
• Corey Feldman and Corey Haim became an iconic duo after this film, often referred to as “The Two Coreys.”
• Joel Schumacher insisted on a stylish, MTV-influenced aesthetic, revolutionizing how vampires were portrayed.
• Keifer Sutherland’s vampire fang broke during filming, and the production had to adjust accordingly.
• The saxophone player in the beach concert scene became a cult symbol and internet meme decades later.

Food Ideas

• Blood-red cherry slushies
• Garlic bread stakes
• Santa Carla seafood platter
• Black licorice “bat wings”
• Vampire fang sugar cookies

Ways to Celebrate

• Host a vampire-themed ‘80s costume party
• Recreate the boardwalk scene with lights and music
• Watch with red lighting to mimic vampire ambiance
• Play “Cry Little Sister” and other soundtrack hits
• Craft your own vampire comic book like in the movie

Filming Locations

The film was shot in Santa Cruz, California, which stood in for the fictional “Santa Carla.” The iconic boardwalk is still a popular tourist attraction today, and the carousel and rollercoaster featured in the film remain in operation, allowing fans to relive scenes in real life.