Gremlins

Introduction to “Gremlins”

Title: Gremlins

Release Year: 1984

Director: Joe Dante

Writer: Chris Columbus

Film Synopsis

A quirky tale blending horror and comedy, “Gremlins” unfolds in the fictional town of Kingston Falls. A young man receives an unusual pet, a Mogwai named Gizmo, as a Christmas gift. Care instructions are simple: avoid bright light, never get them wet, and never, ever feed them after midnight. Inevitably broken rules unleash a horde of mischievous gremlins, leading to chaos.

Interesting Facts

• The movie was executive produced by Steven Spielberg, lending it substantial clout.
• Chris Columbus’s script was initially a dark horror, far from the family-friendly film later produced.
• The film led to the creation of the PG-13 rating due to its mix of horror and comedic elements.

Speculation and Scandal

There has been speculation regarding the film’s portrayal of consumerism and its cultural commentary on technology and capitalism. The depiction of the gremlins has also sparked discussions on racial stereotyping, though these remain debated topics.

Initial Public Reaction

“Gremlins” initially received mixed reviews, with some praising its innovative blend of comedy and horror, while others criticized its violent content. Family-friendly or nightmare-inducing? The debate fueled the film’s success.

Legacy and Modern Perception

Over the years, “Gremlins” has achieved cult status. It is remembered fondly for its peculiar charm and satirical edge. The film’s influence is evident in merchandise, sequels, and a devoted fan base. Today, it’s viewed as both a classic holiday film and a striking piece of 80s cinema.

Gremlins (1984) – Beat List

1. Opening Gambit: Inventor Rand Peltzer ventures into a mystic shop, acquiring a Mogwai he names Gizmo, ignoring the three crucial rules.
2. New Pet Chaos: Billy, Rand’s son, gets Gizmo wet, spawning more Mogwais which transform into destructive Gremlins.
3. Gremlin Takeover: The Gremlins multiply, wrecking Kingston Falls, turning it into their chaotic playground.
4. Midnight Madness: Gremlins go berserk in a bar and movie theater, showcasing their love for havoc.
5. Dark Turn: Gizmo is captured, Billy and Kate discover the horrifying extent of the Gremlin infestation.
6. Showdown at the Store: Final battle in the department store, Billy, Gizmo, and Kate fight to stop the Gremlin leader, Stripe.
7. Stripe’s Demise: Gizmo opens a skylight, exposing Stripe to sunlight, annihilating him.
8. Restoration: With the Gremlins gone, Kingston Falls begins to recover. Gizmo’s original owner reclaims him, warning the West about respecting nature’s rules.

Convo Between Gizmo and Joe Dante

Gizmo: Gizmo caca!

Joe Dante: Hey Gizmo! Ready to talk about Gremlins?

Gizmo: Mhm!

Question 1

Public: What was the inspiration behind Gremlins?

Joe Dante: Real-life mischievous critters and old folklore.

Question 2

Public: Why can’t Gremlins eat after midnight?

Gizmo: Bad things happen!

Joe Dante: It’s a magical rule. Makes them transform!

Question 3

Public: Was it hard working with puppets?

Joe Dante: Challenging but rewarding!

Question 4

Public: Gizmo, any advice on keeping a mogwai as a pet?

Gizmo: No bright light, no water, no food after midnight.

Relevant Issues

• Effects of ignoring rules.
• Chaos versus order.
• Technology vs. nature.

Joe Dante: Gremlins is a cautionary tale!

Gizmo: Gizmo agree!

The opening of “Gremlins” begins in a familiar setting, a small town during the holiday season. The tone is set through a blend of light-hearted charm and underlying tension. A sense of anticipation fills the screen, indicating that something strange lurks beneath the surface of this seemingly idyllic town.

• Set-Up: Introduce protagonist (Billy) and his background, a backdrop of a quaint small town.
• Inciting Incident: Billy receives a mysterious creature (Gizmo) as a Christmas gift.
• Rules Established: Introduce the rules about caring for Gizmo.
• Complication: Gizmo gets wet, and the chaos begins as more gremlins are created.
• Escalating Conflict: The gremlins wreak havoc, turning the town upside down.
• Climax: A confrontation between Billy, Gizmo, and the gremlins.
• Resolution: Order is restored, showcasing a lesson learned about responsibility.

The story is character-driven. The focus is on Billy’s growth as he learns about responsibility, consequence, and the importance of caring for creatures, even if they are mischievous.

Billy Peltzer stands out due to his relatable nature, spirit of kindness, and growth throughout the film. His earnest attempts to do right by Gizmo, coupled with his naive mistakes, evoke sympathy and connection.

• Billy Peltzer: A young man who loves gadgets and is inherently good-hearted.
• Gizmo: A cute, lovable creature with a gentle nature, representing innocence.
• Stripe: The primary antagonist gremlin who embodies chaos and mischief.
• Kate Beringer: Billy’s love interest, showcasing both strength and compassion.
• The Peltzers (Billy’s parents): Provide comic relief and family dynamics throughout the story.

1. Introduction: Establish setting and main character’s normal world.
2. Inciting Event: Introduce a magical or mysterious object (Gizmo).
3. Rules of the Universe: Clarify the parameters that change dynamics (3 rules of Mogwai).
4. Complications Arise: Breach of rules leading to chaos (gremlins created).
5. Rising Action: Escalate conflicts with increasing stakes.
6. Climax: Central conflict peaks in an action-packed confrontation.
7. Falling Action: Begin resolving conflicts and character arcs.
8. Resolution: Wrap up with a moral or lesson learned.

“Gremlins” is about a young man named Billy who receives a creature named Gizmo. When rules for care are broken, chaotic gremlins are unleashed upon the town. The story focuses on Billy’s journey to manage the chaos caused by the gremlins while learning the importance of responsibility and care for others.

Inciting Incident

The inciting incident occurs when Mowgli is discovered by Bagheera and taken to the wolf pack. The presence of the tiger Shere Khan creates immediate danger. This moment symbolizes the clash between the wild and civilization.

Act Structure

Act 1: Introduction

Mowgli’s early life with the wolves sets up his struggle for identity. Bagheera serves as a mentor, showing the audience Mowgli’s unique position between two worlds.

Act 2: Rising Action

Tension builds as Mowgli encounters characters like Baloo and Shere Khan. Mowgli’s adventures reflect his internal conflict.

Act 3: Climax and Resolution

The climax arrives when Mowgli confronts Shere Khan. This moment embodies Mowgli’s growth and acceptance of his true self.

Climax

The climax is Mowgli facing Shere Khan. Emotional capital is high. Mowgli’s fear transforms into courage. The build-up includes encounters with danger and moments of self-doubt, making the confrontation a powerful release.

Tension and Release

Tension builds through close calls with Shere Khan and Mowgli’s misadventures. The stakes increase with every encounter.

Release occurs during moments of triumph over obstacles, especially when Mowgli uses his wit to escape danger and when he finds his place in the jungle.

Gremlins Ending Explained

The movie Gremlins, directed by Joe Dante, ends in chaos. After a series of mischievous and destructive events caused by the Gremlins, the main character, Billy, confronts the last of the creatures. The climactic showdown takes place in a movie theater, where the Gremlins wreak havoc, but ultimately, daylight arrives. The sunlight kills the remaining Gremlins, restoring peace to the town. The film closes with a wink to the audience as Mr. Wing, the pet store owner, mutters about how the Gremlins will come back.

Writers’ Categorization

The ending can be categorized as a mix of dark comedy and fantasy horror. It satirizes traditional monster movie tropes while delivering a moral lesson about responsibility.

Symbolic and Thematic Meanings

• Symbolism of Chaos: The Gremlins represent chaos in everyday life.
• Theme of Responsibility: The importance of handling one’s responsibilities, as Billy learns what happens when rules are broken.
• Speculative Aspect: The ending hints at the unpredictability of life, leaving the door open for potential chaos in the future.

Loose Ends and Payoffs

The ending resolves several plot threads:

• Billy’s struggle to manage the Gremlins ends with their defeat.
• The moral of the story about listening to warnings is clear.
• The underlying theme of consumerism is highlighted through the chaos caused by the Gremlins in a town preparing for Christmas.

Character Changes

Billy evolves from a naive character to a responsible hero, learning the consequences of carelessness. Other characters, like Gizmo, highlight the contrast between innocence and chaos.

Lessons for Writers

• Balance Humor and Horror: Combining genres can create engaging narratives.
• Character Growth is Key: Allow characters to evolve as events unfold.
• Leave Room for Interpretation: Open endings can inspire thought and discussion among audiences.

Dialogue Style in Gremlins

The dialogue in Gremlins is a mix of quirkiness, dark humor, and a sense of 80s nostalgia. Characters often deliver snappy one-liners that reveal their personalities or respond to absurd situations. The dialogue is fast-paced, complements the action, and contributes to the film’s comedic and horror elements.

Quintessential Character Moment

A defining moment is when Billy explains the rules of keeping a Mogwai to his father, Rand. This scene encapsulates the mix of innocence and impending chaos.

Iconic Lines

• “Keep them out of bright light… it’ll kill them!”
• “Don’t feed them after midnight!”
• “You can’t feed ’em after midnight!”
• “I’m not scared of you, you little green bastard!”

Unique Aspects of Dialogue

The dialogue stands out due to its blend of everyday banter with exaggerated horror elements. Characters oscillate between serious moments and comedic relief, creating an engaging and unpredictable atmosphere.

Dialogue Density

The script is dialogue-heavy, with characters often engaging in quick exchanges. This helps build relationships and establish the film’s tone.

Realism of Dialogue

Dialogue is semi-realistic. Characters speak in a relatable manner, but the context is often absurd, enhancing the film’s comedic aspects.

Writing Lessons

• Mix humor with tension to create balance.
• Use dialogue to reveal character traits effectively.
• Keep exchanges brisk to maintain pacing.

Scene Breakdown

Scene: Billy’s living room, introducing Gizmo.

Billy: (excitedly) “Look what I got! Isn’t he cute?”

Rand: (skeptical) “What is that thing?”

Billy: “He’s called a Mogwai. But you have to be really careful with him!”

Rand: “Careful? What’s that mean? Can I feed him?”

Commentary: This moment introduces Gizmo’s cuteness and Rand’s caution, setting up the conflict.

Billy: “Just remember, no bright light, no water, and no food after midnight!”

Rand: (laughing) “Sounds simple enough. What could go wrong?”

Commentary: The irony is palpable. The rules sound easy but hint at the chaos to come.

1. Balance Humor with Horror

The film mixes lighthearted moments with dark themes. Writers should experiment with contrasting tones to enhance emotional impact and keep the audience engaged.

2. Subvert Expectations

Gremlins start as adorable creatures but quickly turn into chaos. Embrace the unexpected twists in your plot to create memorable moments and keep audiences guessing.

3. Build a Strong Setting

The town of Kingston Falls is a character in itself, with a festive setting that contrasts with the horror. Invest in detailed world-building to make your story feel complete and immersive.

4. Utilize Symbolism

Gremlins reflect consumerism and its pitfalls. Incorporate layers of meaning in your narrative— it adds depth and invites audience interpretation.

5. Engage with Themes of Responsibility

The characters face consequences for their choices. Ask deeper questions about accountability in your writing— it resonates with viewers on a personal level.

Films

• 1978: Hollywood Boulevard
• 1981: Gremlins
• 1985: Explorers
• 1990: Gremlins 2: The New Batch
• 1993: Matinee
• 1998: Small Soldiers
• 2000: Looney Tunes: Back in Action
• 2013: Hawaii Five-0 (TV Series, Episode “Kalele”)

Television

• 1995: Space Age
• 2004: The Howling
• 2015: The Twilight Zone (reboot)