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Reviews
The Lost Boys (1987)
Campy and Fun, A Different Set of Fangs
An original take on the vampire film in 1987, The Lost Boys is a campy and fun classic horror/comedy film that follows a family after they move to the fictional town of Santa Carla, California. Lost in the past, the town residents include, hippies, partiers, a few "normal" people, and vampires. The top cast of Corey Haim, Jason Patric, and Dianne Wiest are excellent in their performances as the family suddenly involved with the vampire clan headed equally well by Kiefer Sutherland. A perfect blend of horror and comedy relief guided by a superb music track keeps this film from ever having a dull moment. A must see!
December (1991)
Intellectual, sometimes intense, but sincere look into the hearts and minds of five young men who must choose whether or not to fight in World War II
Picture a "Dead Poets Society" setting at the onset of World War II. Five prep school students each respond with shock and surprise the day after the Japanese bomb Pearl Harbor. Learning that they will be asked to enlist, they spend their last night together battling emotions and each other, each deciding whether or not he wants to risk his life defending and avenging his country. This is a heartfelt story that explores every possible reaction from fear to anger and how friends and situations alter feelings. Each young man has his own individual character and story; each has an opinion that he tries to impress upon his friends (and two brothers). Not only do we learn who will eventually enlist and who will not, we will also understand why they came to their decisions. I found the dramatic elements entertaining and thought provoking. The acting at times becomes slightly over-dramatic giving the feel of a soap opera based in December 1941. Wil Wheaton gives the most constant performance of the group; however, this is not his overall best role. I specifically enjoyed references to comic book hero Captain America and the anti-war novel "Johnny Get Your Gun" and their applied influences. The sets and wardrobe realistically depict the era adding to the atmosphere. The music sounds like it was duplicated from a Hallmark or Lifetime drama; it works in some scenes and feels overused in others. Fortunately, filmmakers use it sparingly. Overall, I found "December" fairly entertaining and very thought provoking. For anyone who does not understand the complexities of war and the emotions involved, start them with classics "Tora Tora Tora" and "Saving Private Ryan" then add this little film to more personalize the experience.