City of Lost Children

The city of lost children is a surrealist film that portrays a very interesting world with some rather unique characters. Arguably my favorite aspect of this film is the wide range of intriguing characters, all of whom possess striking individual characteristics; physically, psychologically and emotionally. The way these characters interact with each other is just that much more engaging due to their often opposing differences.

The best example of this is the contrast and relationship between Miette and One. Miette, while young, and small, is exceptionally mature for her age. She is the leader of a guild of thieves, and clearly can accept her own mortality. One, on the other hand, is a exceedingly large character; his most distinguishing characteristic is his strength. Ironical though, is that One is one of the least mature characters; from his hair, to his apparel, to the way he talks and interacts with other characters suggests that he has the maturity or mental state of a child. When these two characters meet, they bond in to a tight brother and sister relationship. In the end, the two eagerly risk their one life to protect the other.

Age becomes an important motif in this film. It is no accident that the two most integral characters, One and Miette have such great age differences. The film draws on this theme throughout by clashing Krank and toddlers, as Krank attempts to steal their dreams. Near the end of the film, Krank attempts to steal Miette's dreams; the resulting battle ends with Krank almost successfully draining Miette's youth.

The bond 0f family is an important theme in this film. What makes this more interesting, is the fact that with the exception of One and his little brother, family in this film is always figurative in one way or another. The bond between the experimental family (Krank, the mother, and the clones of the original) illustrates that they all consider each other family and go through no small amount of sacrifice in striving to make each other happy. This goes to show that a bond stronger than blood can be make between people unrelated.