The 'Burbs

The 'Burbs

Year: 1989

Runtime: 101 min

Language: English

Director: Joe Dante

MysteryThrillerComedy

A man's relaxing summer vacation takes a disturbing turn when a mysterious new family moves in next door. Growing increasingly suspicious of their odd behavior, he enlists the help of his equally peculiar friends to investigate. Their amateur sleuthing escalates into a frantic search for answers as unsettling events unfold and the seemingly perfect suburban neighborhood hides a sinister secret.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – The 'Burbs (1989)

Trace every key event in The 'Burbs (1989) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Ray's Vacation Begins

Ray Peterson, a suburban resident, begins his week-long vacation, seeking relaxation. Little does he know, his tranquility is about to be disrupted by unsettling happenings around his neighborhood.

Suburban Neighborhood
2

Strange Observations

As Ray spends more time at home, he becomes aware of odd occurrences coming from the Klopek residence next door. His initial discomfort grows as he notes the Klopeks' strange behaviors and late-night activities.

Klopek Residence
3

Growing Suspicion

Ray's unease turns to suspicion, especially after he shares his concerns with friends Art and Mark. The three men begin to piece together a conspiracy surrounding the Klopeks based on their odd habits.

4

Welcome Visit Organized

In an effort to be neighborly, Carol, Ray's wife, decides to host a welcome visit to the Klopeks. Meanwhile, Ray's anxiety mounts, convinced that the newcomers harbor dark secrets.

Klopek Residence
5

Discovery of Walter's Items

Ray's paranoia peaks when he finds Walter's toupee and scattered mail in the Klopek's possession. This discovery heightens the neighborhood's mysterious aura and fuels his suspicions about the Klopeks.

Klopek Residence
6

Walter's Return

After returning from a hospital stay, Walter discovers chaos at home, including his toupee amongst the accumulated mail collected by the Klopeks. This embarrassment deepens the mystery surrounding the Klopeks.

Walter's Home
7

Ray's Investigation

Determined to uncover the truth, Ray embarks on a covert investigation of the Klopeks. His obsession with proving his theory leads him deeper into a web of danger and conspiracy.

Klopek Residence
8

Confrontation with Werner

Tensions escalate dramatically when Werner accuses Ray of discovering a human skull in the Klopeks' basement furnace. This shocking revelation heightens the stakes and reveals the true sinister nature of the Klopeks.

Klopek Residence
9

Ambulance Crash

In a moment of chaos, Hans maneuvers an ambulance into a crash with the Weingartners' house. This dramatic turn of events allows Ray to apprehend Werner and makes a citizen's arrest.

Weingartner's Home
10

Horrifying Secret Unearthed

Ricky stumbles upon a trunk filled with human skeletal remains in the Klopeks' vehicle. This horrifying discovery leads to the Klopeks' immediate arrest and solidifies the neighborhood's suspicions.

Klopek Vehicle
11

Aftermath of the Ordeal

With the Klopeks taken into custody, the community reflects on the chilling events that transpired. Ray's role shifts from suspect to hero as the truth unfolds.

Suburban Neighborhood
12

Ray's Decision to Relocate

In the aftermath, Ray decides that his family will relocate for an extended period, indicating a desire to escape the haunting memories of the Klopeks. This decision marks a significant change for the suburban community.

Suburban Neighborhood
13

Ricky's New Responsibility

Before leaving, Ray implores Ricky to keep an eye on their neighborhood, ensuring the horrors they faced would never return. This final gesture highlights the importance of community vigilance.

Suburban Neighborhood

Last Updated: November 21, 2024 at 09:11

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The 'Burbs Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The 'Burbs, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

The 'Burbs Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in The 'Burbs

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The 'Burbs

More About The 'Burbs

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