The Lost Boys is a cult classic 1987 film that blends horror, comedy, and teen drama, centering on a group of young vampires living in a California beach town. While the movie is famous for its stylish depiction of vampire lore, the actions of the characters—particularly the vampires—would raise significant legal issues if they occurred in real life. This article examines the key crimes committed in The Lost Boys and analyzes how these actions would be treated under Washington State law.
1. Murder (RCW 9A.32.030)
The most serious crime depicted in The Lost Boys is murder. Throughout the film, the vampire gang, led by David, kills multiple people in brutal ways. In Washington, RCW 9A.32.030 defines first-degree murder as intentionally causing the death of another person with premeditation. The actions of the vampire gang would certainly qualify as first-degree murder, carrying severe penalties, including life imprisonment without parole or, in some cases, the death penalty.
2. Assault (RCW 9A.36.011)
The vampires frequently engage in violent altercations with both their victims and the protagonists who seek to stop them. In Washington, assault is defined under RCW 9A.36.011 as intentionally causing bodily harm to another person. Depending on the severity, these actions could be classified as first-degree assault, a class A felony punishable by up to life imprisonment. The violent encounters in the film, particularly those involving weapons or intent to cause serious injury, would likely fall under this category.
3. Kidnapping (RCW 9A.40.020)
Michael, one of the main characters, is lured into the vampire gang and essentially held against his will as he struggles with his transformation into a vampire. Under Washington law, this could be considered kidnapping, defined under RCW 9A.40.020 as intentionally abducting another person with the intent to inflict bodily harm or facilitate the commission of a felony. Kidnapping in the first degree is a class A felony, carrying severe penalties, including life imprisonment.
4. Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor (RCW 9A.08.030)
The vampire gang in The Lost Boys is made up of young adults who engage in illegal activities and encourage minors like Michael to join them. In Washington, RCW 9A.08.030 addresses contributing to the delinquency of a minor, which occurs when someone intentionally causes, encourages, or contributes to a minor committing a criminal act. The actions of the older vampires in leading Michael into a life of crime and violence could be classified under this statute, potentially leading to criminal charges.
5. Breaking and Entering (RCW 9A.52.025)
The vampires frequently enter homes without permission, a common trope in vampire lore. In Washington, this would be classified as second-degree burglary under RCW 9A.52.025, which involves unlawfully entering or remaining in a building with the intent to commit a crime inside. Breaking and entering is a class B felony, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and significant fines. The vampires’ repeated unauthorized entry into private residences would likely result in multiple counts of burglary.
6. Vandalism (RCW 9A.48.090)
Throughout the film, the vampires cause significant damage to property, particularly during their violent confrontations. In Washington, this would be classified as malicious mischief or vandalism under RCW 9A.48.090. If the damage exceeds $5,000, it could be classified as first-degree malicious mischief, a class B felony. The extensive property damage caused by the vampires, including breaking windows and destroying vehicles, would likely lead to serious charges.
7. Underage Drinking (RCW 66.44.270)
The film depicts the characters, many of whom are minors, drinking alcohol. In Washington, RCW 66.44.270 makes it illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to possess or consume alcohol. Underage drinking is considered a gross misdemeanor in Washington and could lead to penalties such as fines, community service, and mandatory alcohol education programs. The scenes of underage drinking in The Lost Boys would constitute multiple violations of this statute.
Conclusion
The Lost Boys is a thrilling and entertaining film, but the actions depicted would raise significant legal issues under Washington State law. From murder and assault to kidnapping, contributing to the delinquency of a minor, breaking and entering, vandalism, and underage drinking, these offenses would result in severe criminal charges if committed in the real world. Analyzing the movie through a legal lens highlights the importance of understanding and adhering to the law, even in a supernatural setting.
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