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Joe Pesci Sets His Head on Fire for “Home Alone 2”
They say that artists must be willing to go to great lengths for their craft, and actor Joe Pesci certainly proved this to be true when he set his head on fire for the iconic film “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York”. In a recent interview with People magazine, the Oscar-winning actor reflected on the making of the beloved sequel as it celebrates its 30th anniversary.
Pesci, known for his roles in films like “Goodfellas” and “My Cousin Vinny”, took on the role of one half of a bumbling thief duo in the “Home Alone” franchise, alongside actor Daniel Stern. The films follow the story of a young boy, played by Macaulay Culkin, who outsmarts the duo with his clever traps and wit.
In the interview, Pesci revealed that the physical comedy in the “Home Alone” films was a refreshing change of pace for him. He acknowledged that the movies were more physically demanding than his usual roles, but he enjoyed the challenge of bringing slapstick humor to life on screen.
One of the most memorable scenes in “Home Alone 2” is when Pesci’s character, Harry, walks into a booby trap set by Culkin’s character, Kevin, which leads to a fiery finish. Pesci recalled sustaining serious burns to the top of his head during the scene where Harry’s hat is set on fire. This happened not just once, but twice, in both the original “Home Alone” and its sequel.
Despite the risks involved in performing these stunts, Pesci was grateful to have professional stuntmen handle the more dangerous aspects of the filming process. He emphasized the importance of safety on set, especially when it comes to executing elaborate stunts that push the boundaries of traditional filmmaking.
“Home Alone 2,” released in 1992, brought back Pesci, Culkin, and Stern, along with Catherine O’Hara and John Heard as Kevin’s parents. The film also introduced actress Brenda Fricker as the Pigeon Lady, a beloved character who plays a significant role in the story’s heartwarming themes of friendship and family.
As the film industry continues to evolve, with advancements in technology and changing audience preferences, it’s important to remember the dedication and commitment of actors like Joe Pesci who are willing to go above and beyond to entertain and inspire audiences around the world.
In conclusion, Joe Pesci’s willingness to set his head on fire for the sake of his art demonstrates the passion and dedication that true artists possess. His role in “Home Alone 2” remains a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring magic of cinema.
