The 'burbs (1989)

Timeless Classic - 4/5

So I saw this film a while ago called 'The 'burbs' and it's one of those films that (rightfully) is on TV all the time. It's the perfect afternoon movie that you delight in finding will be on. It's also one of those films you can watch over and over again without getting bored. Tom Hanks creates such a brilliant character and the fact that the entire film is set in one street makes it easy for people to relate to. The gossip in the community is hilarious and helps create a riotous comedy. The reason films set in one street work is that the viewer feels so included in the plot. Other films such as this would be 'Disturbia' and 'American Beauty' but I think films such as this take so much inspiration from 'The 'burbs'. To me it is the original film of this type.

As mentioned earlier, Hanks gives a brilliant performance in the lead role, and the film makes a superb addition to his early comedic work such as 'Big' which then helped him move on to his more serious work in the early 90's. To see Hanks in these roles gives such pleasure because he manages to be brilliantly funny and he manages to play so many different characters, showing his diversity as an actor. Carrie Fisher gives a solid performance as Hanks' wife Carol and a young Corey Feldman provides some laughs throughout. Another stand out performance was that of Rick Docommun who plays Hanks' friend Art.

The great thing about this film is that it brings so many childhood pleasures. If you were lucky enough to see this film for the first time when you were a child the film creates even more magic every time it is shown. I'm sure this film will keep its popularity and cult following for many years to come and can certainly be called a timeless classic.

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