By Tessa Nolan
“I wasn’t interested in teen vampire movies and turned them down five times. But Joel Schumacher promised me I wouldn’t have to wear makeup or fangs or fly. Of course, he lied.”
– Jason Patric, who played Michael
Director Joel Schumacher wanted me in the movie from the first time we met. But the script I read was nothing like the magical film it became after rewrites and production, and I wasn’t interested in teen vampire movies. So I turned it down about five times, but Joel was determined. He spent weeks explaining his vision, a mix of horror and comedy, and finally wore me down. We made a deal: he promised me I wouldn’t have to wear makeup, fangs, or fly. Of course, he lied.
All these amazing people signed on: Dianne Wiest, who was set to win an Oscar for “Hannah and Her Sisters,” Edward Herrmann, Barnard Hughes, Kiefer Sutherland, Corey Haim, and Corey Feldman. Michael Chapman, the cinematographer of “Taxi Driver” and “Raging Bull,” shot it. I worked with Jami Gertz and convinced her to play Star. The role was conceived as a blonde, waifish girl; I told Joel she could bring a sexy, darker quality to the film.
Review of “The Lost Boys” – Bloody, Brilliant Musings on Youth
We shot in Santa Cruz, California, for about a month. In the late ’70s, it was the murder capital of the world and had a bad reputation. The excitement of the boardwalk and homelessness all over the town merged to create a creepy, carnival-like quality, as if you could find a freak show around every corner.
I had seen Corey (Haim) in “Lucas.” He was a great talent and had this open, vulnerable personality. We read together for my brother Sam and I told Joel, “This is the guy.” He would come over to my house, and we would play baseball and hang out at the pier, creating an indescribable physical form. We had a tight bond, and he was amazingly inventive in his improvisational cane. We played off each other.
The experience of filming “The Lost Boys” was like no other. Joel Schumacher’s vision and determination, along with the talented cast and crew, brought the story to life in a way that captured the dark, youthful essence of the ’80s. The film remains a cult classic, beloved by fans for its blend of horror, comedy, and iconic performances. And for me, it will always hold a special place in my heart as a memorable and unique chapter in my acting career.