Cast of John Hughes’ Classic Comedy Film Uncle Buck Starring John Candy

Cast of John Hughes’ Classic Comedy Film Uncle Buck Starring John Candy
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The Cast of the Classic Comedy Uncle Buck

The 1989 comedy film Uncle Buck starred comedian John Candy in the title role. Directed by John Hughes, Uncle Buck also featured a memorable cast of supporting characters and child actors. Let's take a look at the main cast members and what made them stand out in this classic 1980s comedy.

John Candy as Buck Russell

No discussion of Uncle Buck would be complete without focusing on John Candy's performance in the title role. Candy played the slobby, uncouth, but good-natured Buck Russell, who is called upon to care for his brother's children when there is a family emergency. Even though Buck appears irresponsible at first, he ultimately bonds with the kids and proves his worth. Candy's natural comedic talents and his improvisational skills made him perfect for the role.

Jean Louisa Kelly as Tia Russell

One of the standout child performers in Uncle Buck was Jean Louisa Kelly as Buck's niece Tia. She was the eldest child that Buck had to care for. Kelly portrayed Tia as a frustrated teenager who feels unfairly burdened with responsibility. She and Buck butt heads frequently, but eventually find common ground. Kelly's smart-alecky line delivery and her chemistry with Candy provided some of the biggest laughs.

Gaby Hoffmann as Maizy Russell

Then just a child actor, Gaby Hoffmann charmed audiences as youngest Russell child Maizy. Her innocent saucer-eyed stare and overall cuteness made her scenes with Candy highlights of the film. Hoffmann's Maizy tries Buck's patience severely through much of the movie. But their shared love of pancakes ultimately brings them together in an endearing moment.

Malcolm Danare as Miles Russell

Rounding out the Russell children was Malcolm Danare as Buck's nephew Miles. Danare portrayed Miles as an intelligent but socially awkward pre-teen who marches to the beat of his own drum. His deadpan delivery of some of the script's funniest lines accentuated the humor. Miles forms a special bond with Buck over a shared understanding of not fitting in with the crowd.

Chanice Kobolowski as Chanice Kobolowski

One of the most memorable minor characters was Chanice Kobolowski as Tia's boyfriend-crazed best friend, also named Chanice. Kobolowski hilariously portrayed Chanice as boy-obsessed and completely lacking self-awareness. She delivers one of the most quoted lines when she asks Buck, "How would you like to spend the next several nights wondering if your crazy out-of-work bum uncle will shave your head while you sleep?"

Casting Macaulay Culkin

Young Macaulay Culkin has an amusing cameo in Uncle Buck playing Miles Russell's classroom rival. Culkin so impressed John Hughes with his scene-stealing performance that Hughes went on to cast him as the lead in the blockbuster Home Alone just one year later.

John Hughes' Directing

Much of the credit for Uncle Buck's enduring popularity belongs to writer and director John Hughes. Hughes crafted an hilarious script spotlighting comedic talent like Candy. But he also guided the child actors to excellent performances that made scenes with Buck and the kids the heart of the film.

Though filled with slapstick humor and goofy hijinks, Uncle Buck ultimately succeeds thanks to its blend of earnestness and warmth Hughes coaxed from the cast. Thirty years later, it remains a comedy classic.

FAQs

Who was the director of Uncle Buck?

Uncle Buck was written and directed by John Hughes, known for other popular comedies like The Breakfast Club, Ferris Bueller's Day Off, and Planes, Trains and Automobiles.

What was Uncle Buck rated?

Uncle Buck was rated PG by the Motion Picture Association of America for some mild language and sensuality.

How much did Uncle Buck earn at the box office?

Uncle Buck was a box office success, earning over $79 million worldwide against a budget of $15 million.

Where was Uncle Buck filmed?

Principal photography for Uncle Buck took place primarily around Chicago, Illinois, where the story was set. John Hughes often filmed movies in and around his hometown of Chicago.

Is there an Uncle Buck TV series?

Yes, in 2016 a television series adaptation of Uncle Buck premiered on ABC. It starred Mike Epps in the title role but only lasted one season.

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