Detailed Summary
The McCallister Family Trip
The McCallister family plans a Christmas vacation to Florida, but chaos ensues at the airport. In the rush to catch their flight, Kevin (Macaulay Culkin) gets separated from his family and boards a plane to New York City instead.
Kevin’s Adventure in New York
Arriving in New York with his father’s credit card and plenty of cash, Kevin checks into the luxurious Plaza Hotel. He enjoys the city’s sights, such as Central Park, and visits iconic locations like the Rockefeller Center and the World Trade Center.
The Return of the Wet Bandits
Kevin encounters his old nemeses, Harry (Joe Pesci) and Marv (Daniel Stern), who have escaped from prison and are now calling themselves the “Sticky Bandits.” They plan to rob a toy store on Christmas Eve.
Kevin’s Plan to Foil the Bandits
Kevin discovers their plan and sets up a series of elaborate traps in his uncle’s renovated townhouse. The traps are even more creative and painful than those in the first film.
The Toy Store Heist
On Christmas Eve, Harry and Marv break into the toy store, but Kevin’s traps thwart them at every turn. Despite multiple injuries and setbacks, the bandits continue their pursuit.
The Climactic Chase
Kevin leads the bandits to Central Park, where they finally capture him. However, a homeless woman he befriended earlier, known as the Pigeon Lady, comes to his rescue. The police arrive and arrest Harry and Marv.
Reunion with the Family
The McCallisters realize Kevin is in New York and rush to find him. They reunite at the Plaza Hotel, where Kevin’s father is shocked by the room service bill. The film ends with the family celebrating Christmas together.
Movie Ending
The film concludes with Kevin and his family reunited and enjoying Christmas in their luxurious hotel suite. Kevin’s father receives a massive room service bill, leading to a humorous closing scene where he yells out, “Kevin, you spent $967 on room service?!”
Are There Post-Credits Scenes?
No, “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York” does not have any post-credits scenes.
Type of Movie
This film is a family comedy with elements of adventure and slapstick humor, fitting into the holiday and children’s genres.
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
- Tim Curry as Mr. Hector, the Plaza Hotel concierge
- Brenda Fricker as the Pigeon Lady
- Eddie Bracken as Mr. Duncan, the toy store owner
Film Music and Composer
The film’s score is composed by John Williams, who also composed the music for the first “Home Alone” movie. The music features iconic Christmas tunes and themes that enhance the festive atmosphere.
Filming Locations
- New York City, New York: Key locations include Central Park, the Plaza Hotel, the Rockefeller Center, and the World Trade Center.
- O’Hare International Airport, Chicago: Scenes at the airport.
- Evanston, Illinois: Filming for the McCallister house and neighborhood scenes.
These locations are crucial in capturing the essence of New York during the holiday season, adding to the movie’s charm and appeal.
Awards and Nominations
- Golden Globe Awards: Nominated for Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture – Comedy or Musical (Macaulay Culkin).
Behind the Scenes Insights
- Macaulay Culkin received a significant pay raise for this sequel, making him one of the highest-paid child actors at the time.
- The scenes at the Plaza Hotel were actually filmed there, and then-owner Donald Trump makes a cameo appearance.
- The movie reused some of the original “Home Alone” sets, including the McCallister house.
Inspirations and References
- Christmas Classics: The film draws inspiration from classic holiday tales, incorporating the theme of family togetherness and holiday spirit.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
There are no widely known alternate endings, but some deleted scenes include additional comedic moments and extended versions of existing scenes.
Book Adaptations and Differences
- Novelization: A novelization of the movie exists, which closely follows the film’s plot with minor additional details.
- Differences: The book provides more internal monologues and insights into Kevin’s thoughts and feelings.
Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- Hotel Hijinks: Kevin’s interactions with the Plaza Hotel staff, especially the shower scene with the inflatable clown.
- Toy Store Heist: Kevin setting up traps in the toy store and his uncle’s townhouse.
- Central Park Finale: The Pigeon Lady saving Kevin from the bandits.
Iconic Quotes
- “Merry Christmas, ya filthy animal.” – Kevin (quoting the movie within the movie)
- “Get down on your knees and tell me you love me.” – Kevin
- “Don’t you know a kid always wins against two idiots?” – Kevin
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- The fictional gangster movie “Angels with Even Filthier Souls” is a humorous nod to the first film.
- The turtle dove ornaments Kevin receives symbolize friendship and are a central theme in his relationship with the Pigeon Lady.
Trivia
- Macaulay Culkin’s younger brother, Kieran, appears in both “Home Alone” movies as his cousin, Fuller.
- Tim Curry’s exaggerated facial expressions were inspired by classic cartoon characters.
Why Watch?
“Home Alone 2: Lost in New York” is a fun, heartwarming sequel that captures the magic of Christmas in New York City. With clever traps, memorable characters, and a festive atmosphere, it’s perfect for family viewing during the holiday season.
Director’s Other Movies
- Home Alone (1990)
- Mrs. Doubtfire (1993)
- Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (2001)
- Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (2002)
- Adventures in Babysitting (1987)
Recommended Films for Fans
- Elf (2003)
- The Santa Clause (1994)
- Jingle All the Way (1996)
- The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)
- Miracle on 34th Street (1994)
