Overview:
The holiday classic “Home Alone” celebrated the 35th anniversary of its release yesterday. Even today, “Home Alone” is cherished by millions worldwide. The film provides the perfect combination of slap-stick comedy, family themes, seriousness, and holiday joy.
35 Years of Home Alone by William Barber
Yesterday marked the 35th anniversary of the release of the holiday classic “Home Alone.” A movie that has been quoted and parodied to death, “Home Alone” holds a place in many people’s hearts. But why?
From its crazy comedy to heartwarming family themes, “Home Alone” has a little something for everybody. I have taken the time to reflect on the various aspects of “Home Alone” that I feel make it such an unforgettable film.
The Wet Bandits Meet Their Match
The slapstick comedy that is shown in the climax of “Home Alone” never gets old. With cleverly made booby traps, Kevin McCallister, the main character, played by Macaulay Culkin, guards his home from two bumbling robbers known as the “Wet Bandits.” This results in a series of hysterical moments.
Paint Cans, Blowtorches, and Tarantulas
One of the “Wet Bandits,” Harry (Joe Pesci), opens the door of the McCallister house only to find himself scorched by a blowtorch’s fire. The reaction on his face could arguably be considered one of the funniest moments in cinematic history.
Oh, who could forget that Tarantula? In one of “Home Alone’s” earlier scenes, Kevin’s older brother’s tarantula accidentally gets loose. During Kevin’s battle with the “Wet Bandits,” he places the huge spider on the face of Marv (Daniel Stern), who delivers a scream and facial reaction that could bring even the most callous person to laughter.
From Uncle Frank to John Candy: Faces You Remember
I feel that one of the things that makes a movie like “Home Alone” a classic is its inclusion of secondary characters. They are remembered just as much as the main one. Besides Kevin and the “Wet Bandits,” here is a list of just A FEW of the many memorable characters from Home Alone.
Brother Buzz
Buzz (Devin Ratray), Kevin’s domineering older brother, is a bully like no other. Nonetheless, his verbal exchanges with Kevin and his family are unforgettable.
Annoying Uncle
“Look what you did, you little jerk!” That was the classic line from Kevin’s Uncle Frank, played by Gerry Bamman. Like Buzz, Uncle Frank seems particularly annoyed by Kevin and disregards his nephew’s contributions to the family.
I Want Candy!
Although just a cameo, John Candy’s performance in Home Alone as polka player Gus Polinski adds a little flavor to the film. While helping Kevin’s mother, Kate McCallister (Catherine O’Hara), Candy’s character adds an extra layer of security and comic relief.
Not so Bad “Villain”
Marley, played by the late Roberts Blossom, is first presented as a recluse who has done horrible things in the town where “Home Alone” is taking place. However, like the character of “Boo Radley” in “To Kill a Mockingbird,” Marley turns out not to be so bad after all. He saves Kevin from the Wet Bandits at the end.
Blood is Thicker Than Water, Especially During the Holidays
The beginning of “Home Alone” sees Kevin, whom his parents and siblings have ridiculed, make a wish. He wishes that his family would just disappear. The next day, Kevin’s wish comes true as he is accidentally left behind when his family embarks on an overseas trip.
Although Kevin initially enjoys his newfound freedom, he eventually misses his family. This is evidenced by a touching scene in which he spots neighbors celebrating Christmas. Fortunately, Kevin not only gets his family back but also proves himself to them.
A Forgotten Child Becomes a Hero
Although often at odds with his family, Kevin ultimately becomes a hero. He safely protects the McCallisters’ home from burglary. This makes him honorable in his parents’, his brothers’, and his sisters’ eyes.
I would consider Kevin’s character arc in “Home Alone” as providing a good message to the audience. That, no matter how much your family or society disregards you and your contributions, you can still turn out to be the hero in the end.
Home Alone Lives On!
“Home Alone’s” slapstick comedy, themes, and unforgettable characters have remained ingrained in the minds of millions. For a film that is still rewatched and quoted just as much today as it was 35 years ago, “Home Alone” has proven itself as one of those rare films that have survived the test of time.
As you bundle up this holiday season, watching Kevin outsmart off-the-wall robbers, think about the aspects of “Home Alone” that keep you coming back for more. “Home Alone” is definitely a gift that keeps on giving.
Sources:
“Home Alone.” (1990). Directed by Chris Columbus.
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0099785
“To Kill a Mockingbird.” (1960). Written by Harper Lee.
“To Kill a Mockingbird.” (1962). Directed by Robert Mulligan.
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0056592
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