The City of Lost Children

The City of Lost Children

Year: 1995

Runtime: 112 min

Language: French

Directors: Jean-Pierre Jeunet, Marc Caro

AdventureSci-FiDramaFantasyComedy

In a bizarre quest for eternal life, the decrepit Krank pillages the dreams of innocent children, aided by his army of cloned enforcers. When he snatches 5-year-old Denree, a desperate father and his resourceful young friend join forces to rescue the boy and vanquish Krank's monstrous minions.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – The City of Lost Children (1995)
Explore the full timeline and setting of The City of Lost Children (1995). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The film's surreal and fantastical elements create an ambiguous backdrop that does not adhere to a specific historical timeline. Instead, it immerses viewers in a timeless world where advanced technologies and dream manipulation coexist with a carnival-like setting.

Location

Oil Rig, Nearby Port City

The movie is set primarily on a decrepit oil rig that serves as the lair of Krank, filled with bizarre inventions and eerie atmosphere. Additionally, the story connects to a nearby port city where children are abducted, highlighting a stark contrast between the vibrant life of the city and the dark undertones of the oil rig.

🏭 Location 🌊 Waterfront

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:43

Main Characters – The City of Lost Children (1995)
Meet the key characters of The City of Lost Children (1995), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Krank

Krank is a sinister figure, characterized by his aloof demeanor and insatiable desire to extract dreams, which highlights his own inability to dream. His intellect is both a gift and a curse, leading to his rapid aging and obsessive nature.

🧠 Genius ☠️ Antagonist

One

One is the carnival's muscleman, defined by his loyalty and fierce determination to rescue his young brother, Denrée. Though initially caught up in a life of crime, his character arc reveals a deeper sense of empathy and moral duty.

💪 Strongman ❤️ Protector

Miette

Miette is a clever and resourceful orphan who becomes One's ally. Her bravery and quick thinking prove vital in their quest, showcasing her strong will and innate courage, especially when facing the surreal challenges within the dreamscape.

👧 Orphan 🦸‍♀️ Heroine

Irvin

Irvin is a unique character, a brain preserved in a vat, who serves as a guiding voice amidst the chaos. His insights and manipulations highlight the significance of thought and creativity in overcoming one's limitations.

🧠 Brain 💡 Mentor

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:43

Major Themes – The City of Lost Children (1995)
Explore the central themes of The City of Lost Children (1995), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

💔 Loss

The theme of loss is omnipresent, as many characters grapple with the absence of loved ones and the consequences of their actions. One's quest to rescue Denrée emphasizes the emotional toll of abandonment, while Krank's inability to dream reflects a deeper sense of existential loss.

🌀 Dreams

Dreams play a central role in the narrative, serving as both a source of power and a battleground. Krank's obsession with extracting dreams from children highlights the darker side of desire, as characters navigate the blurred lines between reality and the dreamscape.

🤝 Friendship

The bond between One and Miette illustrates the importance of companionship in overcoming adversity. Their relationship grows stronger as they face challenges together, ultimately demonstrating that friendship can spark courage and resilience in the face of danger.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:43

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