The film debuted in Chicago on November 10, 1990, and was released in U.S. theaters on November 16. Although early reviews were mixed, the film’s reputation has grown over time, earning praise for its performances, comedic elements, and music.

Home Alone earned $476.7 million globally, holding the record for the highest-earning live-action comedy until The Hangover Part II came out in 2011, and it catapulted Culkin to fame. It was also the second-highest-grossing film of 1990, following Ghost.

The movie received nominations for a Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy and Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy for Culkin, as well as Academy Award nominations for Best Original Score by John Williams and Best Original Song for “Somewhere in My Memory.” Over time, Home Alone has come to be regarded as one of the top Christmas films ever made. A follow-up, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, was released in 1992.