Macaulay Culkin, known for his iconic roles in films like “Home Alone,” recently shared some fascinating insights into the filming process of the emotional bee scene in the classic coming-of-age movie “My Girl.” The actor, who portrayed the character Thomas Jay in the 1991 film alongside Anna Chlumsky, revealed details about the challenging scene in a podcast interview with Kevin McCarthy.
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In “My Girl,” Culkin’s character, Thomas, tragically succumbs to a bee attack, leaving his best friend Vada, played by Chlumsky, devastated. Culkin disclosed that real bees were used during the filming of the scene, creating a sense of realism that would be difficult to replicate today. He explained how the production team used a scent resembling the queen bee on his fingertips to attract the bees, resulting in thousands of bees being released on him for the scene.
Reflecting on the experience of working with “real freakin’ bees,” Culkin mentioned that the scene required him to wave his hands in front of his face to capture the bees on camera. Despite the precautions taken and instructions not to touch anything, Culkin shared a humorous anecdote about accidentally attracting bees to his pants during filming. The scene took four takes to complete, with Culkin emerging mostly unscathed except for a lone bee sting on his neck.
In addition to the bee scene, Culkin highlighted another challenging moment from the film involving a lake jump on a summer day. He described the elaborate process involving trappers catching water moccasins, cutting them into pieces for bait, and then using the bait to lure snapping turtles and alligators. Culkin humorously questioned the choice of location, joking about the unconventional risks they took for the scene.
Despite the hardships faced during filming, Culkin reminisced about his friendship with Chlumsky, emphasizing the genuine camaraderie they shared on set. Chlumsky, in a separate interview, reflected on the enduring impact of “My Girl,” acknowledging how the film resonated with audiences and touched many lives. She expressed gratitude for being part of a movie that holds a special place in the hearts of viewers.
As Culkin and Chlumsky look back on their roles in “My Girl,” the film continues to be cherished by fans for its heartfelt storytelling and remarkable performances. Culkin’s behind-the-scenes stories offer a glimpse into the dedication and challenges involved in creating a poignant cinematic experience that remains etched in the memories of audiences decades later.