Home Alone (1990)

Home Alone Review

Home Alone was directed by Chris Columbus and written by John Hughes has become a holiday classic since its release in 1990. Combining slapstick comedy heartwarming moments, and a quirky plot it tells the story of Kevin McCallister Macaulay Culkin an 8 year old boy accidentally left behind when his large family goes on vacation. What begins as an adventure in freedom for Kevin quickly turns into a battle of wits as he defends his home from two bumbling burglars Harry and Marv Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern who plan to rob the McCallister house.

At the heart of Home Alone is Kevin a young boy who, after a family argument is sent to the attic for punishment and forgotten when the family rushes to the airport. Initially thrilled by the sudden solitude Kevin revels in the absence of parental supervision. However the fun quickly fades when he realizes that two burglars are targeting his house. Kevin's inventive mind combined with his strong desire to protect his home sets the stage for a series of iconic over the top pranks that have become staples in comedy.

Macaulay Culkin's performance as Kevin is one of the film's standout elements. Culkin's mix of childlike innocence and cunning resourcefulness is both charming and hilarious. His facial expressions especially during moments of shock and triumph have become iconic in popular culture with Kevin’s wide eyed screams becoming one of the most memorable images of the film. The chemistry between Culkin and the other characters especially the slapstick duo of Harry and Marv adds to the film's charm.

Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern as the bumbling burglars Harry and Marv also known as the Wet.