Keep The Change You Filthy Animal Home Alone

Iconic Home Alone Scene Was Inspired by a 30s Gangster Classic

From heartwarming holiday film to nostalgic gangster flick

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The beloved holiday classic "Home Alone" has captivated audiences for decades with its heartwarming tale of a young boy defending his home from bumbling burglars. But did you know that one of the film's most iconic scenes was inspired by a classic gangster film from the 1930s?

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In "Home Alone," the scene where Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin) uses a paint can to defend himself against the two burglars, Harry and Marv (Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern), is an unforgettable moment. This scene was directly inspired by a similar scene in the 1931 gangster film "The Public Enemy," starring James Cagney. In that film, Cagney's character, Tom Powers, uses a grapefruit to attack his rival.

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Director Chris Columbus, who also wrote the screenplay for "Home Alone," has confirmed that he was directly inspired by the "The Public Enemy" scene when he created the paint can scene. Columbus believed that the humor and shock value of the grapefruit scene would translate well to a family-friendly film.

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The iconic Home Alone scene has become a beloved moment in cinematic history. It's a testament to the enduring power of classic films and the creative inspiration they can provide for future generations of filmmakers.

Conclusion

The connection between "Home Alone" and "The Public Enemy" is a reminder that even the most beloved holiday films can draw inspiration from unexpected sources. It also highlights the influence of gangster films on American popular culture, showcasing how these films continue to inspire and entertain audiences long after their release.