In 1990, 'Home Alone' shocked the industry by grossing $476 million. It stayed at #1 at the box office for 12 weeks straight and remained in theaters for nearly half a year. For 27 years, it held the record for the highest-grossing live-action comedy in the U.S. (until overtaken by The Hangover Part II). Its success was a combination of John Hughes' script, Chris Columbus' direction, and Macaulay Culkin’s breakout performance. It proved that a simple, high-concept family comedy could compete with—and outlast—massive action and sci-fi blockbusters during the holiday season.