Home Alone is one of the most entertaining holiday movies of all time. The plot is absolutely unbelievable, but who cares—it’s hilarious. Macaulay Culkin does an amazing job playing the role of 8-year-old Kevin McCalister. Kevin is an incredibly misunderstood yet clever little kid, and his character keeps the audience on the edge of their seats.
It all starts in the chaotic house of the McCalisters, with the big family running around, bumping into each other, yelling, and complaining. Eventually, Kevin gets banished to the attic, where he goes to sleep wishing his family would disappear. The next morning, Kevin wakes up realizing his wish had come true. Every kid wishes they could have the same luxury, but at the same time they fear being home alone. He does a great job displaying this, as he fears the furnace in the basement, random noises, and knocking on the door.
However, the true tension of the film arises when Kevin discovers that two burglars, the “Wet Bandits,” are planning to rob his house. This realization forces Kevin to grow up quickly, transforming from a scared child into a strategic mastermind. He defends his home with an elaborate and hilarious series of booby traps that leave the audience cheering.
While Kevin’s traps provide the entertainment, the story finds its heart in the subplot of the mysterious neighbor, Old Man Marley. Also known as the “Shovel Man” to the local kids, he is initially presented as a figure of urban legend and fear. However, after a touching conversation in a church, Kevin realizes that Marley is actually a kind, lonely man who is just as misunderstood as he is.
When Kevin’s luck finally runs out and the burglars have him cornered, Marley swoops in at the last second. Using his trusty snow shovel, he knocks out the intruders and rescues Kevin. I truly believe that Old Man Marley is the true hero of this story.
Home Alone is a perfect blend of comedy and heart. It teaches us that while being independent is fun, there is no substitute for the protection and love of family—and even the kindness of a stranger.
