Review of Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992) by Omotestgump — 02 Apr 2023

There are different tastes in this film. Those who like the film say it is still fun, while those who dislike it say it is exactly the same as the previous film.

The story is blatant, but the blatant story is saved, in my opinion, by the action and the new elements.

As bad as 3 was, Macaulay Culkin will prove to be very important to Home Alone. His sly Kevin character is delightful and funny. He may be a little less funny in 2, but that is saved by the hilarious characterizations around him.

Also, while closer to comedy than action, the thief being taken advantage of by the kid is overtly funny, and while it's not fresh since we saw a smattering of it last time, I still felt the idea still somewhat worked. We think one factor is that, unlike last time, the majority of the film is not invaded by this comedy.

The new additions to the story are also pleasing to us. I will tell those who criticize us for repainting the previous film by increasing the scale of violence and location, but it is not only the violence that has increased. I don't know if this will satisfy you, but there is some humor in Kevin relaxing gracefully in the hotel. Also, the increased characterization makes it more interesting. (Last time it was just him, his family, and the thief; this time it's Mr. Duncan and the woman the pigeons flock to.).

Minor changes are made: more violence and characters, moving the location to New York City, and changing the taste of the story. And the key humor is recycled! - This is a clear attempt to deceive the audience. We know this. But we still like Home Alone, its characters, and its humor, so we are fooled even though we know it.