‘Home Alone 2: Lost in New York’ With Bill Simmons and Kyle Brandt
The Rewatchables
Deep Dive
Why do Bill Simmons and Kyle Brandt prefer 'Home Alone 2: Lost in New York' over the original?
They argue that the sequel feels like a smarter redo of the first movie, with a more Christmassy New York setting and Tim Curry's performance as a standout. They also appreciate the unapologetic approach of repeating the same formula, which they find enjoyable.
What makes Tim Curry's performance in 'Home Alone 2' stand out?
Tim Curry plays the hotel manager with a creepy, over-the-top energy that adds a unique layer to the movie. His presence is pivotal, and without him, the movie might lose some of its charm.
Why do some viewers find the parents' negligence in 'Home Alone 2' unrealistic?
The parents lose Kevin twice in a short span, which is hard to believe. They don't seem to learn from their mistakes, and the scene where they oversleep despite having multiple people in the house is particularly criticized for being unrealistic.
What is the 'Butch's Girlfriend Award' for in 'Home Alone 2'?
This award highlights the weak link in the film, which is the parents' negligence. The premise that they would leave Kevin behind twice is seen as a stretch, and the movie requires viewers to suspend disbelief to enjoy it.
What is the 'Talkboy' and why is it significant?
The 'Talkboy' is a tape recorder designed as a prop for the film, which became the best-selling toy of 1992. It was a popular item among kids who wanted to emulate Kevin's resourcefulness in the movie.
What are some of the most unrealistic moments in 'Home Alone 2'?
The oversleeping scene where the family sleeps through beaming sunlight, the parents not realizing Kevin is missing until they reach the next airport, and the lack of security at Duncan's Toy Chest are among the most criticized unrealistic moments.
What is the 'Pigeon Lady' scene criticized for?
The 'Pigeon Lady' scene is criticized for being overly sentimental and out of place in the movie. It involves a lengthy, heart-to-heart conversation between Kevin and a homeless woman, which some viewers find boring and unnecessary.
What is the most rewatchable scene in 'Home Alone 2'?
The most rewatchable scene is when Kevin sets up all his traps to defend against the Sticky Bandits. The elaborate booby traps and the physical comedy of the crooks getting injured are highly entertaining.
What is the 'Wisdom from the Pigeon Lady' scene about?
The 'Wisdom from the Pigeon Lady' scene is a heartfelt but lengthy conversation where the Pigeon Lady shares her backstory of heartbreak and loneliness with Kevin. It's meant to add emotional depth but is often seen as out of place and overly sentimental.
What is the 'CompuBox' and why is it significant in 'Home Alone 2'?
The 'CompuBox' is a detailed breakdown of all the injuries and traps Kevin sets for the Sticky Bandits. It highlights the cartoonish violence and the creative ways Kevin tortures the crooks, which is a key part of the movie's appeal.
- Home Alone 2: Lost in New York is discussed as a potential Christmas movie.
- Debates center around the necessity of a Christmas setting for the film's identity.