there's a couple metaphors here

[raisedbymoogles]

Home Alone has layers, y'all. XD

So Marv (the tall dumb bandit) has this thing he likes to do, where he plugs up people's sinks and turns on the faucets before they leave, thus ensuring that not only their victims come home to a burglarized house but also a big expensive mess to clean up. Harry (the short smart bandit) tells him off for this, saying that it makes it easier for the cops to track their movements, but Marv doesn't seem too concerned about that, because "It's our calling card!"

So for Marv, the cruelty is (part of) the point. It's not even really out of overt hatred for the people he hurts, at least not that we see in the film. It's just... part of his identity.

Subsequently, both men are repeatedly outsmarted by an eight-year-old.

Tellingly, though, Kevin doesn't defeat them on his own. Ultimately it's because of the connection he makes with Mr. Marley, a man he's been taught to fear, that Harry and Marv are defeated. (Weirdo solidarity.)

Idk y'all i just really like this movie, almost despite myself. it's got some of the same 'someone actually remembers what it's like to be a kid' that A Christmas Story has, despite it being very much rooted in marketable 'but faaaaamily!' philosophy. (also just gonna take the opportunity to wave the 'Kevin is undiagnosed autistic' flag once again, ahem)

Comments

[senmut]

And my comment here: "Undiagnosed but oh so visible"

[raisedbymoogles]

i know it was 1990 and culturally we would have all rather swan-dived into a tar pit than seek psychological support but srsly McAllisters get that kid to a specialist! Also possibly a dietician.