Diksia.com - The Home Alone franchise is one of the most beloved and iconic Christmas movie series of all time. The first two films, starring Macaulay Culkin as Kevin McCallister, a clever kid who defends his house from burglars, are considered classics by many fans.
But what happens when a new generation of kids and crooks take over the screen? That’s the premise of Home Sweet Home Alone, a 2021 comedy film that pays homage to the original movies, but with a twist.
In this article, we will review the plot, the cast, the humor, and the nostalgia factor of this film, and tell you why it is worth watching.
Plot
Home Sweet Home Alone follows Max Mercer, a mischievous and resourceful boy who is accidentally left behind by his family when they go on a trip to Japan for the holidays. Meanwhile, Jeff and Pam McKenzie, a married couple who are struggling to keep their home, mistakenly believe that Max has stolen a valuable heirloom doll from them during an open house.
They decide to break into the Mercer’s house to retrieve the doll, but they are unaware of the traps and tricks that Max has prepared for them. What ensues is a hilarious and chaotic battle of wits and wills, as Max tries to protect his home from the trespassers, and the McKenzies try to get their doll back.
Cast
One of the strengths of Home Sweet Home Alone is its talented and diverse cast. Archie Yates, who plays Max, is a charming and charismatic young actor who delivers a convincing performance as a smart and sassy kid. He is not a carbon copy of Kevin McCallister, but rather a unique character with his own personality and quirks.
Ellie Kemper and Rob Delaney, who play Pam and Jeff, are also excellent as the sympathetic and clumsy burglars. They are not evil or malicious, but rather desperate and misguided. They have a great chemistry and comedic timing, and they make the audience root for them as well as for Max.
The supporting cast is also impressive, featuring familiar faces such as Kenan Thompson, Pete Holmes, Chris Parnell, and Devin Ratray, who reprises his role as Buzz McCallister, Kevin’s older brother.
Humor
Another highlight of Home Sweet Home Alone is its humor. The film is full of witty dialogue, hilarious situations, and slapstick violence. The film does not shy away from the classic Home Alone formula of booby traps and physical comedy, but it also adds some new and creative twists.
For example, Max uses modern technology such as drones, smart speakers, and security cameras to outsmart and prank the McKenzies. The film also pokes fun at some of the tropes and clichés of the original movies, such as the incompetent police, the scary neighbor, and the sentimental ending. The film is not afraid to be silly and absurd, but it also has a heart and a message.
Nostalgia
Finally, Home Sweet Home Alone is a nostalgic treat for fans of the original movies. The film is full of references and Easter eggs that pay tribute to the Home Alone legacy. For instance, the film features the iconic music score by John Williams, the famous line “Keep the change, you filthy animal”, and the cameo appearance by Buzz McCallister.
The film also recreates some of the memorable scenes and gags from the first two films, such as the pizza delivery, the aftershave scream, and the spider attack. The film is not a remake or a sequel, but rather a reboot that acknowledges and respects its source material, while also offering something new and fresh.
Conclusion
Home Sweet Home Alone is a fun and entertaining comedy film that appeals to both old and new fans of the Home Alone franchise. The film has a clever plot, a likable cast, a hilarious humor, and a nostalgic factor.
The film is not a masterpiece or a classic, but it is a worthy addition to the Home Alone family. If you are looking for a festive and funny movie to watch this holiday season, you should check out Home Sweet Home Alone on Disney Plus. You will not regret it.
