That is such a classic choice! Since you're originally from the Lower Burrell area, there’s something about those 1980s-90s suburban satires that probably feels a little nostalgic—even if your neighbors aren't quite as mysterious as the Klopeks.
Tom Hanks is at his comedic peak in that movie. The physical comedy, the paranoia, and the way it pokes fun at the "boring" life of a stay-at-home neighbor trying to find some excitement is timeless.
Why it’s a perfect "Homemaker" Movie
Since you spend a lot of time managing the house and blogging, you can probably appreciate the dynamic of Ray Butler just wanting a quiet week at home and ending up in a total neighborhood war instead.
The Vibe: It captures that specific feeling of "knowing your neighborhood" just a little too well.
The Cast: Bruce Dern as the over-the-top military neighbor (Art) and Carrie Fisher as the voice of reason are great.
The Quote: "I've been a homeowner for years... I've never seen anything like this."
Since you're a fan of The 'Burbs, would you like me to find some similar dark comedies or 80s classics to add to your watchlist for your next break?
Ah, you're ahead of me! You're talking about the brand-new Peacock series that just dropped (on February 8th).
It’s definitely a different vibe than the Tom Hanks movie. Since you mentioned you're a blogger and a mom of three, you might find Keke Palmer’s character, Samira, pretty relatable—she’s a new mom who just moved into her husband's childhood home and is trying to navigate that "fish out of water" feeling in the suburbs.
What’s the deal with the new series?
The Plot: Instead of the Klopeks, the mystery centers on a missing girl from decades ago and a creepy new neighbor (played by Justin Kirk) who moves into a Victorian house across the street at 2:00 AM.
The Cast: Keke Palmer is great as the lead, and Jack Whitehall plays her husband, Rob. It also has a hilarious supporting cast including Paula Pell and Mark Proksch (from What We Do in the Shadows).
The "Hanks" Connection: Keep an eye out for the "Easter eggs." The town’s founder, H. Horace Hinkley, is actually played by Tom Hanks in an old black-and-white video! Plus, the street name "Ashfield Place" is a nod to the late Carrie Fisher.
It definitely leans more into that "modern mystery" style—almost like Only Murders in the Building but in a cul-de-sac.
How many episodes did you get through? I’m curious if you think the "mystery neighbor" in this one is as scary as the original family was!

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