Why Chris Columbus Refused to Direct Christmas Vacation

A Christmas Movie Tale: How ‘Home Alone’ Almost Didn’t Happen

Christmas⁣ movie lovers everywhere adore Chris Columbus’s classic “home Alone,” but few know about the behind-the-scenes drama that nearly‍ derailed the project. Imagine ⁤a⁤ world without Kevin McCallister‌ foraging for booby traps—it almost happened.

Before landing the gig that would solidify his Christmas movie ⁣legacy, ⁤Chris Columbus was actually set to direct another ​holiday staple: “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.” Legendary producer John Hughes, who had brought Columbus aboard, had high hopes for the project. “John Hughes sent me the script ⁢for Christmas Vacation,” ⁣Columbus recalled. “I love Christmas, so to do a Christmas comedy had ​been a dream.” Though,‍ Columbus encountered an ‍unexpected obstacle⁢ during pre-production: a clash of personalities with the film’s leading man, Chevy Chase. “I went out​ to dinner with Chevy Chase. To be completely honest, Chevy treated me like ⁢dirt. But I stuck it​ out and ⁢even went as far as to​ shoot second unit. ‌some of my shots of downtown Chicago are still in the movie.” Despite his attempt‍ to push through, the ​uncomfortable working relationship proved too much. “Then I had another ​meeting⁤ with Chevy, and it was worse. I called⁣ John and said, ‘There’s no way I can do this movie. I know ‌I⁢ need ​to ⁣work,​ but I can’t do⁣ it⁤ with ​this guy.’ ⁢John was very understanding.” Two weeks later, Columbus received ⁤a welcome surprise: a package containing two scripts, one ‍of which was “Home Alone,” accompanied by a note from Hughes ⁢simply asking, ​”Want⁣ to direct?” “Wow, this guy is really supporting me when no one else in Hollywood was going to. John was my savior,” Columbus said. In a twist​ of fate, the tension surrounding “Christmas vacation” ultimately led columbus to a project that would define his career. ‌Jeremiah S. Chechik directed “Christmas Vacation,” but ultimately both “Christmas Vacation” and “Home Alone” stand as ⁢undeniable ‍holiday classics. both‌ films hold a special place in our ⁣hearts. Which one would you rather cuddle up with this holiday ‌season? ​Let us know in the⁣ comments below!
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## From “Christmas Vacation” to “Home alone”: An Interview with Chris Columbus



**Archyde:** Welcome back to Archyde, movie fans! Today we have teh privilege of speaking with legendary director Chris Columbus, known for bringing us beloved classics like “Home Alone,” “Mrs. Doubtfire,” and the frist two “Harry Potter” films.



Chris,thank you so much for joining us.



**Chris Columbus:** Thank you for having me.



**Archyde:** Now, we all know and love “Home Alone,” but many are unaware of the fascinating story behind its creation.You were initially on board to direct “National Lampoon’s Christmas vacation,” another beloved holiday film.



Can you tell us more about yoru early involvement and what ultimately led you away from that project?



**Columbus:** Absolutely. John Hughes, a true visionary in the film industry, gave me the script for “Christmas Vacation,” and I was thrilled.A Christmas comedy had been a dream project for me.



Regrettably, pre-production took a rather unexpected turn. I had dinner with chevy Chase, the film’s lead, and…well, to be honest, he wasn’t exactly welcoming. He treated me quite poorly. I persevered, even shooting second unit footage in downtown Chicago, some of which is still in the final film. But the experience wasn’t pleasant, and ultimately, I decided to step away from the project.



**Archyde:** That’s quite a tale! It truly seems everything worked out for the best, as “Home Alone” went on to become a massive success.How did that project come about?



**Columbus:** After leaving “Christmas Vacation,” I was approached by John Hughes again. This time, he had a different script – “Home Alone.” I read it, and I knew immediately it was something special. It was quirky, heartwarming, and had the potential to be truly magical.



And the rest, as they say, is history.



**Archyde:** Indeed! It’s hard to imagine a christmas season without Kevin McCallister’s booby traps and hilarious antics.Thanks for sharing this behind-the-scenes glimpse, Chris.



**Columbus:** My pleasure.



**Archyde:** For Archyde, I’m [your name].