10 Movies & Shows Like Home Alone (1990)

Description: Shares 'Home Alone's' theme of a mischievous child causing havoc, though with a darker comedic edge. Both films explore adult-child dynamics where the child's antics drive the plot, though 'Problem Child' takes a more exaggerated approach to the concept.

Fact: Originally conceived as a much darker film before being reworked as a comedy. John Ritter plays against type as the hapless adoptive father. Spawned two sequels and an animated series.

Description: Shares 'Home Alone's' theme of kids using clever tactics to outsmart adult criminals. While more action-oriented, both films feature children defending their home/space against intruders using improvised methods.

Fact: Originally titled '3 Ninja Kids'. Spawned three sequels. The young actors underwent extensive martial arts training for their roles.

Description: Similar to 'Home Alone' in its portrayal of a mischievous child causing chaos for adults, particularly a grumpy neighbor. Both films blend comedy with light-hearted family themes, focusing on the antics of a young protagonist who outsmarts the adults around them.

Fact: Based on the long-running comic strip by Hank Ketcham. Walter Matthau plays Mr. Wilson, the grumpy neighbor, in one of his most memorable roles. The film was shot in Winnetka, Illinois, the same town where 'Home Alone' was filmed.

Description: Very similar to 'Home Alone' in structure - a young child outwits incompetent criminals through a series of coincidences and clever maneuvers. Both films use physical comedy and the 'child vs. adults' dynamic as their central premise.

Fact: Directed by Patrick Read Johnson, who was inspired by 'Home Alone's success. The baby's stunts were performed by twins. Features elaborate set pieces including a construction site and zoo sequence.

Description: Like 'Home Alone', this features a kid outsmarting adults and living out a childhood fantasy (in this case, spending a million dollars). Both films have a wish-fulfillment aspect where the young protagonist gains unexpected control over their circumstances.

Fact: The young star, Brian Bonsall, was also known for his role in 'Family Ties'. Features an elaborate water park scene that took weeks to film. The mansion used in the film is the same one from 'Problem Child 2'.

Description: Shares 'Home Alone's' nostalgic, family-friendly comedy style. Both films focus on children's perspectives and adventures, with adults often being the butt of jokes or obstacles to overcome.

Fact: Based on the 'Our Gang' comedy shorts from the 1920s-40s. Features early appearances by several future stars. The go-kart race was one of the most expensive sequences to film.

Description: Shares the Christmas setting and frantic, comedic tone of 'Home Alone'. Both films involve a parent figure going to extreme lengths (Arnold Schwarzenegger's character in this case) to make things right for their child during the holidays, resulting in chaotic situations.

Fact: Arnold Schwarzenegger's first major comedy role. The Turbo-Man doll was created specifically for the film. Features early appearances by Phil Hartman and James Belushi.

Description: Like 'Home Alone', features a clever child protagonist overcoming oppressive adult figures. Both films celebrate childhood ingenuity and resilience, though 'Matilda' adds supernatural elements to its story.

Fact: Based on Roald Dahl's novel. Danny DeVito directed and starred in the film. Mara Wilson's performance made her one of the most famous child stars of the 90s.

Description: While more focused on family dynamics than 'Home Alone', shares its chaotic household setting and themes of children outsmarting adults. Both films balance physical comedy with heartfelt family moments.

Fact: Loosely based on the 1948 memoir. Features a young Hilary Duff in a supporting role. The house set was built on a soundstage to accommodate complex shots.

Description: Like 'Home Alone', this family comedy features chaotic household situations and children's antics driving the plot. Both films explore themes of family bonding through comedic adversity.

Fact: A remake of the 1968 film. Dennis Quaid and Rene Russo play the blended family parents. Features one of the largest on-screen families in film history with 18 children.