The Complex Relationship Between Laurie Strode and Michael Myers in the Rebooted 'Halloween' Series

Halloween has been an iconic horror series since its inception in 1978. However, with the recent reboot of the series in 2018, the filmmakers chose to take a bold move by not following the sequels that came after the 1978 original. This decision allows for a more grounded and raw narrative, but it also leaves some questions about the relationship between the two titular characters: Michael Myers and Laurie Strode.

Understanding the Discontinuity

It is essential to understand the context surrounding the 2018 reboot. The filmmakers have decided to ignore the events of Halloween II, which took place just a few months after the 1978 film. In Halloween II, the relationship between Michael Myers and Laurie Strode was portrayed in a more complex and twisted manner, suggesting some kind of familial connection. However, with the new film, the creators have deliberately chosen to ignore these connections in order to maintain a clean and straightforward narrative.

The Current Reboot: A New Chapter

The 2018 reboot of Halloween directly continues the story of the 1978 film. In this new iteration, Laurie Strode has become a symbol of survival and resilience. The 2018 film introduces us to a different version of Laurie, who now struggles with PTSD and the trauma of witnessing tragedy and loss. She is convinced that the same monster who killed her friends will come for her, even though Michael Myers has been in prison for 40 years. However, as the film unfolds, we see that this monster is indeed back, as Michael escapes from his prison, much to Laurie's horror.

Knowing Laurie Strode

Laurie Strode, played by Jamie Lee Curtis, is a compelling character in the new reboot. Born into a family and later adopted, Laurie’s background is not fully known to her. She was adopted at an early age and had no knowledge of her real parents. This makes her a character whose identity is both mysterious and compelling. In the 2018 film, Laurie’s story is told through her internal struggle and the external threats that she faces, making her a relatable and strong character.

The Revolving Door of Relationships

A significant aspect of the new reboot is the deliberate decision to ignore the relationships established in Halloween II. Specifically, the filmmakers have chosen not to explore the connection between Michael Myers and Laurie Strode in that vein. Instead, the new film portrays their relationship as one based on fate and obsession.

Michael Myers, in the 2018 film, has a fascination with Laurie Strode. This fascination is rooted in their shared past and the trauma they both endured. While Laurie is focused on her own survival and the safety of those around her, Michael is single-mindedly focused on her, viewing her as a continuation of his vendetta. Laurie, on the other hand, sees Michael as a symbol of the past that she must now face and overcome. Their relationship is not familial but is rather built on the twisted and dark paths they each took in life.

When Michael takes note of Laurie and her interactions with Tommy, it is clear that he has a particular interest in her. Laurie, who is essentially a babysitter and guardian for Tommy, is likely a figure that Michael finds reminiscent of his late sister. This creates a chilling dynamic in which Laurie must confront both the past and the present danger, with Michael as the constant threat.

Conclusion

The reboot of Halloween in 2018 represents a new chapter in the franchise. By ignoring the sequels that added complex familial connections, the filmmakers have created a more straightforward and intense narrative. Laurie Strode’s relationship with Michael Myers is now rooted in their intertwined pasts and the shared trauma they both experienced. This new approach to the story allows viewers to focus on the core themes of survival, resilience, and the unrelenting force of trauma.

Whether or not you agree with the decisions made by the filmmakers, the new Halloween series offers a fresh perspective on an iconic horror character. It is a testament to the enduring power of the original 1978 film and Jamie Lee Curtis's enduring performance as Laurie Strode.

References

Halloween (2018) on IMDb Halloween (1978) on IMDb Halloween II (1981) on IMDb