Poor Little Rich Kids

In the midst of all the recent hoopla about the stage-parenting antics of Kit Culkin, Macaulay’s manager-father, it was announced that the Culkins had come to terms with Warner Bros. for Mac to play the title role in a film based on Harvey Comics’ character Richie Rich. But not before Culkin Sr. threatened to walk away from the film if he didn’t get director approval--and Warners called his bluff. Now that Mac has the role, it’s easy to say that it seems like typecasting. But it’s more than that; when you examine the deal, the fit is frighteningly right, given all of the similarities between Richie (known as “the poor little rich boy”) and Macaulay (sometimes referred to as “the new Shirley Temple”).

*

Richie Rich:

Golden-haired rich kid. Frequently left home alone (with robot servant). Has powerful father who seldom pays attention to Richie because of business. Father worth close to a billion dollars. Father is a wealthy industrialist who will leave fortune to son. Get million-dollar allowance. When in trouble, calls on scientist friend Professor Kenbean. Has no siblings with whom to share parents’ minimal attentions. Friends with Wendy the Good Little Witch and Casper the Friendly Ghost. *

Macaulay Culkin:

Golden-haired rich-kid actor. Starred in “Home Alone” (and robotic sequel). Has power-hungry father who pays too much attention to Mac’s business. Two “Home Alone” films grossed close to a billion dollars. Father is unsuccessful actor hoping to make a fortune with hot-commodity son. Getting $8 million to film “Richie Rich.” When in trouble, calls on agent Sam Cohn. Has multiple siblings whose father is promoting their movie careers as well. Friends with Michael Jackson and perpetual would-be actress Brooke Shields.