The 'Burbs (1989)

Tom Hanks portrays suburbanite Ray Peterson, whose plans for a peaceful vacation are disturbed by a creepy new family on the block, in this outrageous suspense-comedy directed by Joe Dante. To the disappointment of his wife Carol (Carrie Fisher), Roy decides to spend a relaxing week at home, and soon gets into trouble with his neighbours-a hefty busybody (Rick Ducommun), a freaked-out ex-soldier (Bruce Dern), and a spacey teenager (Corey Feldman)-as they observe the strange happenings next door at the Klopek s bizarre residence. When the neighbourhood grouch suddenly disappears, the men are convinced the ramshackle house hides some hideous clues. Armed with assault rifles, high-powered binoculars and a shovel, they decide to see for themselves exactly what is going on in the Klopek place. Set in an average neighbourhood that is anything but average, THE BURBS blend slapstick comedy and spine-thrilliing mystery with the type of witty humour that has made Tom Hanks one of today s most popular stars.