Home Alone (1990)

Detailed Summary

The McCallister Family’s Departure

The McCallister family is preparing for a Christmas vacation to Paris. Amid the chaos, Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin) feels neglected and gets into trouble with his siblings, resulting in him being sent to sleep in the attic.

The Family Forgets Kevin

The next morning, the family oversleeps and rushes to the airport, accidentally leaving Kevin behind. Kevin wakes up to find the house empty and initially revels in his newfound freedom.

Kevin’s Initial Days Alone

Kevin enjoys his independence, indulging in junk food and watching movies. However, he soon realizes he must take on adult responsibilities, like grocery shopping and laundry.

The Wet Bandits

Harry (Joe Pesci) and Marv (Daniel Stern), two bumbling burglars known as the Wet Bandits, target the McCallister home, assuming it to be empty. Kevin overhears their plan and decides to protect his house.

Setting Traps

Kevin ingeniously sets up a series of elaborate traps throughout the house to thwart the burglars. This sequence involves a mix of physical comedy and clever engineering.

The Showdown

The Wet Bandits fall into Kevin’s traps, enduring a series of painful and humiliating mishaps. Despite their persistence, Kevin outsmarts them at every turn.

Family Reunion

Kevin’s mother, Kate (Catherine O’Hara), desperately tries to get back to him, ultimately succeeding with the help of a polka band led by Gus Polinski (John Candy). The family reunites on Christmas morning, and Kevin’s efforts to protect the house are revealed.

Movie Ending

The film ends on a heartwarming note as Kevin reunites with his family. The Wet Bandits are arrested thanks to Kevin’s traps, and Kevin exchanges a wave with his reclusive neighbor, Old Man Marley (Roberts Blossom), who reconciles with his estranged family.

Are There Post-Credits Scenes?

No, “Home Alone” does not have any post-credits scenes.

Type of Movie

“Home Alone” is a family comedy film with elements of adventure and holiday cheer. It combines slapstick humor with heartwarming moments.

Cast

• Macaulay Culkin as Kevin McCallister
• Joe Pesci as Harry
• Daniel Stern as Marv
• Catherine O’Hara as Kate McCallister
• John Heard as Peter McCallister
• Roberts Blossom as Old Man Marley
• John Candy as Gus Polinski

Film Music and Composer

John Williams composed the film’s music, creating an iconic score that includes the memorable theme “Somewhere in My Memory.”

Filming Locations

• Winnetka, Illinois: The McCallister family house is located here and serves as the primary setting.
• O’Hare International Airport: Scenes of the family’s chaotic airport rush were filmed here.
• New Trier Township High School: Used for several interior shots, including the flooding basement.

The suburban Chicago setting enhances the film’s holiday charm and sense of community.

Awards and Nominations

• Academy Awards: Nominated for Best Original Score and Best Original Song (“Somewhere in My Memory”).
• Golden Globe Awards: Nominated for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy and Best Actor – Motion Picture Musical or Comedy (Macaulay Culkin).

Behind the Scenes Insights

• The idea for the film came from writer John Hughes, who wondered what a child would do if left home alone.
• Macaulay Culkin’s brother, Kieran Culkin, plays Kevin’s cousin, Fuller.
• The movie had a budget of $18 million and became a massive box office success, grossing over $476 million worldwide.

Inspirations and References

• Classic Comedies: The slapstick humor and physical comedy are reminiscent of classic comedies like those of Buster Keaton and Charlie Chaplin.
• John Hughes’ Experiences: Hughes drew on his experiences and imagination of childhood to craft the story.

Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes

There are no widely known alternate endings. However, the DVD release includes several deleted scenes with additional pranks and character interactions that were cut for pacing.

Book Adaptations and Differences

Todd Strasser novelized the film, staying true to the movie’s plot and adding some internal thoughts of the characters for depth.

Memorable Scenes and Quotes

Key Scenes

• Setting the Traps: Kevin’s montage of preparing the house against the burglars.
• Church Scene: Kevin’s conversation with Old Man Marley, adding emotional depth to the film.
• The Battle: The sequence of Kevin’s traps being sprung on Harry and Marv.

Iconic Quotes

• “Keep the change, ya filthy animal!” – Kevin (quoting a gangster movie)
• “Buzz, your girlfriend. Woof!” – Kevin
• “I’m gonna give you to the count of ten to get your ugly, yella, no-good keister off my property…” – Kevin (quoting the same gangster movie)

Easter Eggs and Hidden Details

• The fake gangster movie “Angels with Filthy Souls” was created specifically for “Home Alone.”
• The McCallister’s house decor includes many red and green elements, emphasizing the Christmas theme.

Trivia

• Macaulay Culkin’s performance made him the first child actor to earn a salary of $1 million for a single film.
• The house used for the exterior shots became a popular tourist attraction.
• John Candy improvised all his lines during his cameo as Gus Polinski.

Why Watch?

“Home Alone” is a perfect blend of humor, heart, and holiday spirit. Its creative traps and clever plot make it a timeless classic for audiences of all ages. It’s a feel-good film that captures the essence of family, bravery, and Christmas cheer.

Director’s Other Movies

Chris Columbus, the director of “Home Alone,” has also directed:

• Mrs. Doubtfire (1993)
• Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (2001)
• Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (2002)
• Adventures in Babysitting (1987)
• Pixels (2015)

Recommended Films for Fans

• Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992)
• The Santa Clause (1994)
• Elf (2003)
• Jingle All the Way (1996)
• National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989)