Curled up on the couch in your PJs one winter night, you find yourself scrolling through the Christmas movies on TV, trying to decide which one to watch. The Polar Express is playing, but you decide to turn on Home Alone instead. You made a great choice!

Home Alone is a timeless Christmas movie filled with an unforgettable combination of suspense and humor. The story follows young Kevin McCallister and his adventures when he finds himself alone at his house on the days leading up to Christmas.

This film, starring Macaulay Culkin, was a breakout film for the young star, for obvious reasons. Throughout the movie, Culkin became his character, portraying the attitude and character traits of the young, forgotten child exceptionally well. 

Throughout the storyline, the plot escalated in drama, creating a rise and fall of suspense, that sequenced well with the humor used to deescalate the tense scenes, unlike the repetition of tension in The Polar Express, which eventually became tiresome. There was never a dry moment in the movie, with each scene transitioning well into the next and further developing the story. The humor in Home Alone sustains the joyful tone of the holiday spirit, which you can’t find in The Polar Express.

The storyline also creates a sense of sympathy in the viewers for Kevin, as he learns that he regrets his wish to not have a family. In addition, you see the struggle of his mom to get home to rescue her child and make sure he is safe, and you can sense her regret through the film screen.  The timeless lesson that family will overcome melts even the coldest of hearts in this Christmas classic. 

Home Alone mixes laughter and tension for the perfect Christmas adventure. Home Alone is a great movie to watch with anyone; family, friends, or even by yourself. The exciting plot makes Home Alone enjoyable for movie lovers of all ages, so take some time to relax and enjoy Home Alone this holiday season.