Critters (1986) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

Critters takes place primarily at two key locations: a roadside rest stop where the family first encounters danger, and a tenement building that becomes the main battleground for survival. The rest stop represents an open, typical traveler stop, while the tenement creates a confined, claustrophobic space where the family must fight off the alien creatures.

• setting
• tenement building
• rest stop
• locations

Critters is set in contemporary times, taking place shortly after the events of the first film. The late 1980s setting reflects the era's cultural context, blending family survival themes with science fiction horror elements popular during that period.

• time period
• 1980s
• contemporary
• era

The family theme centers on the bond between Annie, her younger brother Johnny, and their father Clifford. Their unified struggle against the Critters showcases the protective instincts and resilience family members demonstrate when facing external threats. This theme emphasizes unity and the lengths each character goes to ensure each other's survival.

• family
• annie
• clifford
• johnny
• bond

The alien horror theme explores how ordinary domestic spaces become terrifying when invaded by unknown extraterrestrial creatures. The Critters represent the fear of the unfamiliar disrupting everyday life, transforming a normal tenement building into a battlefield. This theme combines science fiction elements with horror by introducing alien predators into a relatable, household setting.

• aliens
• critters
• horror
• science fiction
• fear

Corruption is represented through the landlord character, whose unethical and manipulative behavior creates additional tension for the residents. His greed and exploitation serve as a secondary threat that compounds the danger posed by the Critters, adding societal commentary about power abuse and moral failing even amid existential crisis.

• corruption
• landlord
• power
• authority
• morality

Annie is the protagonist of Critters, a brave and resourceful young woman who takes charge when the alien creatures attack. She acts as the primary protector for her younger brother Johnny, relying on her instincts and determination to keep her family alive. Her character represents familial strength and the fight for survival under extreme circumstances.

• annie
• protagonist
• main character
• brave

Charlie MacFadden is a seasoned Critter hunter tasked with tracking down the remaining alien creatures from the first film. He brings a comedic flair to the narrative with his quirky personality and expert skills. Charlie arrives at the tenement building with the hope of eliminating the Critter threat, providing a crucial ally to the trapped family.

• charlie macfadden
• hunter
• comedy
• alien hunter

Clifford is the father in the family unit, embodying a protective and nurturing role throughout the crisis. He faces unexpected challenges as he fights to ensure his children's safety amid the chaos brought by the Critters. His character contrasts with the children's innocence while highlighting the parental instinct to shield family from harm.

• clifford
• father
• protector
• parent

Johnny is Annie's younger brother, representing vulnerability and childhood innocence amidst the horrific events. His dependence on his sister and father adds emotional stakes to the narrative, as the characters must protect him from the Critter threat. Johnny embodies the theme of childhood facing adult dangers.

• johnny
• brother
• innocence
• child
• vulnerability

The Critters are alien creatures that serve as the primary horror threat in the movie. These predatory aliens invade domestic spaces, turning familiar environments into dangerous battlegrounds. They embody the sci-fi horror element of the film, representing an unknown, terrifying force that disrupts ordinary life.

• critters
• aliens
• creatures
• monsters
• predators

The tenement building serves as the central confined space where most of the film's action unfolds, creating intense claustrophobia and trapping the characters with the approaching danger. This setting contrasts sharply with the open roadside rest stop where the threat is first introduced, amplifying the sense of being hunted with no escape.

• tenement
• building
• setting
• confinement
• trap

Critters blends horror and comedy by using the alien creatures as a serious threat while incorporating humorous elements through Charlie's quirky hunter character and the overall creature-feature tone. The dark comedy approach allows the film to maintain tension while providing levity, creating a tone that is both suspenseful and entertaining.

• horror
• comedy
• tone
• dark comedy
• balance