UNCLE BUCK (1989)

I adore John Hughes movies. He taps into something very honest and earnest about the interconnectedness of family members that never feels trite or belittling. John Candy plays Uncle Buck, a human disaster manchild who is asked to babysit his brother’s 3 children for a week. Despite all the little absurd details that make the movie rich, the story itself and the characters’ reactions to everything felt real. Of course Tia (Jean Louisa Kelly) is going to resent her parents for the move from Indianapolis to the Chicago suburbs (real original, Hughes). She’s a teen, she acts out, and the ways she acts out feel believable. Buck’s heart of gold always coming up against his more laissez-faire energy provides endearing comedy. His consistent protectiveness of Tia against Bug, while feeling a tad outdated, still plays well because that Bug guy is a real cockroach of a human being. When Tia finally comes around to accepting Uncle Buck’s help, it feels earned. That scene is also given even more of a gut punch when Buck asks for Tia’s help with Chanice (Amy Madigan) in a vulnerable way. Not to say that he maintains this vulnerability - the following scene where he explains to Chanice, “I have told you ‘I love you.’ And it wasn’t for tires, sweetheart, it was for shocks, remember?” has such excellent writing. Hughes sums up Buck in 2 sentences flat all while getting a giggle. I love the relationship that Buck has with all the kids, especially when he comes to the defense of Maizy (Gabby Hoffman) at the meeting with her assistant principal. Candy’s physical comedy pairs well with the kids and their environments (I loved the “trying to use the facilities at the elementary school” scene). The score for this film was also punchy and felt modern. The score helped the movie feel more timeless.

As someone who absolutely adores Mr. Mom, Uncle Buck is a welcome watch that hits all the familiar comfort points:  funny man taking responsibility for children and growing up with them. Fantastic.

Food Recommendation: Fratelli Cafe, on Melrose. Big portions, easy going. They’ve got a great hash - and there’s no onions in those eggs.