The 'Burbs

Main Plot

In "The 'Burbs," directed by Joe Dante, Ray Peterson is a suburbanite who decides to spend his vacation relaxing at home. However, his plans are disrupted when he and his quirky neighbors become suspicious of the reclusive Klopek family, who have recently moved in next door. Strange noises and unusual behavior from the Klopeks lead Ray and his friends to believe that the newcomers are involved in sinister activities. As their paranoia grows, they embark on a series of comedic and increasingly outlandish attempts to uncover the truth. The film blends elements of dark comedy and satire, exploring themes of suburban life, neighborly curiosity, and the fine line between vigilance and hysteria.

Characters

• Ray Peterson, played by Tom Hanks, is a suburbanite who becomes suspicious of his reclusive new neighbors, leading him to investigate their strange behavior.
• Bruce Dern plays Mark Rumsfield, a paranoid, ex-military neighbor who helps investigate the strange activities of the new, mysterious family on the block.
• Carrie Fisher plays Carol Peterson, the supportive wife of Ray Peterson, who tries to keep her husband grounded amidst the neighborhood's escalating paranoia.

Ending Explained

In the conclusion of Joe Dante's film "The 'Burbs," Ray Peterson (Tom Hanks) and his neighbors, who have been suspicious of the reclusive Klopek family, finally uncover the truth. After a series of comedic and chaotic events, Ray and his friend Art (Rick Ducommun) break into the Klopeks' basement, convinced they will find evidence of foul play. Initially, they find nothing, and Ray, feeling guilty for his paranoia, apologizes to the Klopeks. However, as Ray is about to leave, Dr. Werner Klopek (Henry Gibson) attempts to kill him, revealing their sinister nature. In the ensuing struggle, the Klopeks' car is accidentally destroyed, exposing human skeletal remains hidden in the trunk. This confirms the neighbors' suspicions that the Klopeks are indeed murderers. The film ends with Ray being vindicated, and the Klopeks being arrested. The neighborhood returns to normal, and Ray decides to take a vacation with his family, having learned a lesson about jumping to conclusions but also realizing that sometimes, suspicions can be justified.