Home Alone has become a Christmas staple for many people, and with good reason. It’s light, it’s funny, and you can put your brain in neutral while you watch it.
Macaulay Culkin stars as Kevin McAllister, a sassy and clever 8 year old with an attitude. With his home in chaos as his family and extended family get ready for Christmas in France, Kevin inadvertently gets left behind, alone in Chicago (director John Hughes’ favorite venue). Initially scared and hiding underneath his bed, the movie follows his rapid maturation from scaredy-cat to superhero.
His nemeses are two burglars, Marv and Harry, who have targeted the McAllister home as the crown jewel in their string of burglaries. Marv and Harry aren’t too bright, and their roles are more Keystone-cop than serious threats. Nevertheless, Daniel Stern is amusing as Marv, the dumber half. Joe Pesci takes the role of Harry, only “dumb” as opposed to “dumber”. Having watched Pesci in some more serious roles, the role is a definite step down for him. What Kevin does to the burglars is amusing, like watching the cages and balls from the game Mousetrap is amusing. You know what’s coming, but it’s fun to watch anyway.
One of the more interesting sub-plots revolves around the McAllister’s neighbor, who Kevin’s brother, Buzz, says is the Snow Shovel Murderer. Another good sub-plot is the development of the character of Uncle Frank. I think we all have an “Uncle Frank” in our family trees, and it’s a character to whom most of us can relate. Some of the others are a little more difficult to do so.
Culkin carries the movie, which is admirable for his first role. His facial expressions are wonderful, and his narrative thoughtfully delivered. But the movie is entirely implausible, from burglars who pose little danger to the inept police department who dismiss the call from Kevin’s frantic mother, Kate (Catherine O’Hara). That’s why you need to put your brain in neutral. And why parents watching it with their children ought to discuss what to really do if ever alone or uncomfortable around certain people. Implausibility aside, it’s good fun and it’s entertaining.
Julie’s Rating: 3 stars 
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MPAA Rating: PG —
Cautions: Poor attitudes toward parents, light swearing —
Appropriate for: Most viewers, with the above cautions