The ‘Burbs Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

Tom Hanks just wants to chill on his vacation, but his neighbors are convinced the new family next door are either Satanists or have really bad taste in lawn ornaments, so they start a neighborhood watch that quickly spirals into breaking and entering… and accidental arson.

🍿 The ‘Burbs: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Introduction to Mayfield Place

Ray Peterson decides to spend his vacation at home, hoping for a relaxing week. However, the arrival of the strange Klopek family next door disrupts the peace of his suburban cul-de-sac. The Klopeks’ odd behavior and dilapidated house immediately raise suspicion among Ray and his neighbors, Art Weingartner and Mark Rumsfield.

Rising Suspicions and Investigation

Fueled by Art’s paranoia and Mark’s military-trained observation skills, Ray begins to question the Klopeks’ activities. Strange noises, late-night digging, and the disappearance of elderly neighbor Walter Seznick further heighten their suspicions. The trio embarks on a series of increasingly absurd investigations, spying on the Klopeks and searching for evidence of foul play.

Breaking and Entering

Driven by their obsession, Ray, Art, and Mark break into the Klopek’s house while the family is away. Their search leads them to a massive furnace in the basement and a freshly dug area in the dirt floor, intensifying their belief that the Klopeks are hiding something sinister. This act of breaking and entering has disastrous consequences that impact the whole neighborhood.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Ray Peterson (Tom Hanks): An overstressed suburbanite who becomes increasingly paranoid about his new neighbors during his vacation.
• Carol Peterson (Carrie Fisher): Ray’s pragmatic and often exasperated wife who tries to keep him grounded.
• Mark Rumsfield (Bruce Dern): A highly excitable Vietnam veteran and neighbor who fuels Ray’s suspicions with his military expertise and paranoia.
• Art Weingartner (Rick Ducommun): An obnoxious and gluttonous neighbor who eagerly joins Ray and Mark in their investigation, often escalating the situation.
• Dr. Werner Klopek (Henry Gibson): The unsettling and mysterious leader of the Klopek family, whose strange behavior sparks neighborhood suspicions.
• Ricky Butler (Corey Feldman): The neighborhood teenager who observes and comments on the escalating events, often with amusement.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Art: “I’m telling you, Ray, they’re Satanists.” – Art’s unwavering belief in the Klopeks’ evil nature drives much of the plot and the neighbors’ investigation.
• Mark Rumsfield: “Rumsfield. That’s my name, and exterminating is my game.” – Mark’s eagerness to confront the Klopeks, fueled by his military background, adds a layer of intensity and dark humor.
• Ray Peterson: “This is Walter’s toupee. We found it in their basement!” – Ray’s desperate attempt to provide evidence against the Klopeks, highlighting the escalating absurdity of their investigation.
• Ray Peterson: “We’re the lunatics, Art! We’re the ones digging up the street! What do you think they’re gonna say?” – Ray’s sudden realization of their own ridiculous behavior, right before the Klopek house explodes. Captures the theme of suburban paranoia turning inward.
• Ricky Butler: “God, I love this street.” – Ricky’s repeated line throughout the movie, emphasizes the heightened absurdity of the situation for the audience.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $18,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $36,601,993
• Worldwide Gross: $49,101,993

💥 The ‘Burbs Reviews

Personal Review

I remember watching ‘The ‘Burbs’ as a kid and being both terrified and amused. Tom Hanks is fantastic as the relatable everyman losing his mind, and the Klopeks were genuinely creepy. Bruce Dern steals every scene he’s in. I still laugh at the sardine and pretzel scene! It’s a movie that doesn’t take itself too seriously and provides pure entertainment. Plus, it makes you wonder what your own neighbors are really up to!

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of dark comedies”
  • “Viewers who enjoy suburban satire”
  • “Fans of Tom Hanks’ early comedic roles”
  • “Those looking for a lighthearted, quirky film”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Mild violence”
  • “Suggestive humor”
  • “Brief language”
  • “Paranoid themes”

Professional Reviews

• Variety: “A darkly comic look at suburban paranoia, ‘The ‘Burbs’ benefits from strong performances, particularly Tom Hanks as the everyman unraveling under pressure and Bruce Dern as the gleefully unhinged neighbor. While the plot is somewhat predictable, the film’s satirical edge and moments of genuine suspense make it an enjoyable, if not groundbreaking, experience.
• RogerEbert.com: “‘The ‘Burbs’ walks a fine line between comedy and thriller, creating a unique and unsettling atmosphere. Joe Dante’s direction keeps the tension high while allowing the talented cast to shine. The film cleverly satirizes suburban anxieties while delivering genuine laughs and suspense.
• New York Times: “As a suburb satire The ‘Burbs succeeds due to the writing which presents a sly commentary on neighborhood insularity. The cast deliver memorable performances, especially Rick Ducommun as the annoying neighbor and Bruce Dern as the overzealous war veteran.

Audience Reactions

Bruce Dern’s over-the-top performance is hilarious and unforgettable.: The cast’s chemistry and comedic timing are spot-on, making the movie endlessly quotable.

The movie perfectly captures the quirky, sometimes unsettling, nature of suburban life.: Many find the Klopek family genuinely creepy, adding a layer of suspense to the comedy.

Overall Consensus: A cult classic blending comedy and thriller elements, ‘The ‘Burbs’ is a fun and quirky film that continues to resonate with audiences for its satirical take on suburban life.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “The film was shot on Colonial Street at Universal Studios, the same street used for ‘Leave It to Beaver,’ ‘The Munsters,’ and later, ‘Desperate Housewives’.”
• “The role of Art Weingartner was initially offered to John Candy, but he turned it down.”
• “The musical score by Jerry Goldsmith features playful use of motifs from other films, including ‘Patton’ and ‘The Omen,’ heightening the sense of suburban paranoia.”

🖥️ How to Watch The ‘Burbs?

The ‘Burbs’ is available for rent or purchase on various digital platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Vudu. Check your local listings for potential streaming options or cable on-demand availability. Physical copies on Blu-ray and DVD can also be purchased from major retailers.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed The ‘Burbs, you might like these similar films:

• Rear Window (1954): Shares the theme of paranoia and suspicion of neighbors, driven by limited information and vivid imagination.
• Neighbors (1981): Another dark comedy centered on the chaos that ensues when a normal man becomes obsessed with his strange new neighbors.
• Arsenic and Old Lace (1944): A black comedy with a similar tone of dark secrets hidden behind a facade of quaint suburban life.
• Disturbia (2007): A modern thriller where a teenager under house arrest begins to suspect his neighbor is a serial killer, echoing the themes of surveillance and suspicion.
• What We Do in the Shadows (2014): Cult classic; a comedic look into the lives of unusual neighbors.

🛒 The ‘Burbs Related Products

• The ‘Burbs’ [Blu-ray]: A collector’s edition Blu-ray with behind-the-scenes footage, deleted scenes, and interviews with the cast and crew. Includes commentary from director Joe Dante, offering insights into the making of the film.
• The ‘Burbs’ Movie Poster: A high-quality reprint of the original movie poster. Perfect for decorating home theaters, living rooms, or offices.
• ‘Burbs’ Inspired ‘I Know What You’ve Done!’ T-Shirt: A T-shirt featuring the iconic phrase from the film, printed on comfortable, high-quality fabric. Available in various sizes and colors.
• Suburban Nightmare Board Game: A board game where players take on the roles of the neighbors, trying to uncover the secrets of the Klopeks before they become the next victims. Features elements of strategy, deduction, and dark humor.

🎧 Soundtrack

The ‘Burbs features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Main Title” – performed by Jerry Goldsmith
• “The Raven” – performed by Jerry Goldsmith
• “Machine” – performed by Circus of Power

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

The Burbs – Movie Review

If you’re a fan of The ‘Burbs, you’re not going to want to miss this comprehensive review by Jeremy Jahns. He breaks down the film’s strengths and weaknesses with his signature wit and insight.

The Burbs – Alternate Ending

Have you ever wondered how The ‘Burbs could have ended differently? This video reveals an alternate ending that’s sure to spark your curiosity. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the creative process behind the film.

✨ Rate