Home Alone (1990)
Home Alone is a classic family comedy that follows the unforgettable misadventures of Kevin McCallister, an energetic and mischievous 8-year-old boy from a large Chicago family. With Christmas approaching, the McCallisters prepare for a big holiday trip to Paris. Amid the chaotic packing, rushing, and family arguments, Kevin feels ignored and unfairly blamed for the commotion. After a fight with his older brother Buzz, Kevin angrily wishes his family would “just disappear.”
The next morning, in the frantic rush to catch an early flight, the family accidentally leaves Kevin behind. Due to a power outage and a mix-up with the headcount, no one realizes he’s missing until their plane is already airborne across the Atlantic. Meanwhile, Kevin wakes up to an empty house and believes his wish has magically come true. Thrilled by the sudden freedom, he spends his days eating junk food, watching forbidden movies, and exploring the joys of having the house all to himself.
However, Kevin soon discovers a serious problem: two bumbling burglars known as the “Wet Bandits,” Harry and Marv, are targeting empty houses in the neighborhood for the holidays—and the McCallister home is next on their list. Realizing the danger, Kevin transforms from a carefree kid into a resourceful young defender. He devises a series of clever, hilarious, and painfully effective booby traps throughout the house to stop the intruders.
As Kevin prepares to confront the burglars, he also learns valuable lessons about independence, courage, and family. He befriends a lonely old man, Marley, who helps Kevin understand the importance of forgiveness and reconnecting with loved ones. Their friendship plays a key role when Marley ultimately comes to Kevin’s rescue during the final confrontation with the Wet Bandits.
Back in Paris, Kevin’s mother, Kate, desperately tries to return home, enduring a long and stressful journey with the help of a traveling polka band. She finally makes it back on Christmas morning, where she and Kevin share an emotional reunion. Shortly after, the rest of the family returns as well—just in time to appreciate Kevin in a whole new way.
The film ends with the Wet Bandits getting arrested, Kevin feeling proud of himself, and the McCallisters reunited for a heartwarming Christmas.
