What Is Home About?
The premise of Home in 290 words, with nothing given away. The full story follows below.
In a not‑so‑distant future, Earth has become the unexpected landing spot for the Boov, a brightly colored alien race that has turned a sudden invasion into a surprisingly orderly relocation. Their ability to shift hue with their emotions paints every cityscape with a playful, ever‑changing palette, while their rapid‑fire settlement of human homes creates a whimsical clash of cultures. The world feels both familiar and delightfully alien, a sitcom‑like backdrop where ordinary streets are suddenly dotted with hovering vehicles and cheerful, if clueless, extraterrestrials.
Among the newcomers is Oh, a Boov whose curiosity and free‑thinking spirit set him apart from his more conformist peers. He delights in the simple pleasure of a housewarming party, an unusual notion in a species that usually shuns individuality. His enthusiasm for personal expression and his knack for seeing the world through a different lens make him both endearing and a little out‑of‑place, hinting at the film’s gentle exploration of what it means to belong while staying true to oneself.
On the other side of the cultural divide, Tip navigates the upheaval of the Boov’s arrival with a fierce independence born of loss. Separated from her mother during the chaotic relocation, she clings to her cat, Pig, and a simmering resentment toward the alien occupants of her planet. Her sharp wit and determined heart contrast with Oh’s optimistic naiveté, setting the stage for an unlikely partnership that promises both comedic mishaps and heartfelt moments.
Together, these two strangers embark on a light‑hearted adventure that balances vivid visual comedy with a tender examination of friendship, identity, and the courage to bridge worlds. The tone remains upbeat and family‑friendly, inviting viewers to wonder how strangers might find common ground amid the colorful chaos of an interstellar house‑share.
What Happens in Home?
The complete story of Home, from the first scene to the last, in 602 words (about 3 minutes). Spoilers throughout. Names in the text link to 4 cast member pages.
Spoilers ahead
On the run from their formidable enemy, the planet-destroying Gorg, the Boov—known as the best species ever at fleeing—discover Earth to be a perfect place for them to establish their new “home.” Under the leadership of Captain Smek (played by Steve Martin), the Boov initiate their so-called “friendly” invasion. Their strategy involves relocating humans by temporarily reversing Earth’s gravity and using enormous vacuums to extract people from their homes. This unsettling operation leads to the Boov categorizing humans as simple and backward, and they move them to designated areas such as a massive colony in Australia dubbed Humanstown, while the Boov settle into the vacated homes with astonishing speed and minimal conflict.
Among the Boov is a unique member named Oh, portrayed by Jim Parsons, who is characterized by his enthusiastic and free-thinking nature. Unlike his fellow Boov, Oh invites his brethren to a housewarming party in his apartment, despite their typical disdain for individuality. A notable aspect of the Boov is their extraordinary ability to change colors depending on their emotional states.
Meanwhile, not far from Oh, a young human girl named Tip, played by Rihanna, is desperately making her way through her city after getting separated from her mother, Lucy (portrayed by Jennifer Lopez), during the invasion. All she has left is her calico cat, Pig, and a growing resentment toward the Boov race. As fate would have it, Oh accidentally crosses paths with the rebellious Tip and her cat while trying to hide from a Boov cop named Kyle, played by Matt Jones. Despite their initial conflict—Tip’s anger towards Oh for taking over her planet and separating her from her mother—circumstances force the two to join forces. Oh, despite lacking knowledge about handling a hovering vehicle, manages to transform Tip’s non-functional car into a fantastical mode of transportation running on Slushies, aptly named Slushious, and pledges to assist Tip in her quest to find Lucy.
Their adventure leads them to the Boov Command Center located in an upside-down Eiffel Tower in Paris, where Oh must contend with Captain Smek, who is attempting to delete an intergalactic party invite Oh inadvertently sent to all alien races, including the Gorg, which puts them on a tight timeline of 40 hours. Oh’s peculiar password thwarts Smek’s cancellation efforts, causing significant chaos.
As they navigate through the dangers, including close encounters with the relentless Gorg ship headed their way, Oh learns more about human emotions and family bonds, realizing that Tip deeply misses her mother and that in the Boov world, there are no mothers. Fulfilling his promise, Oh helps Tip locate Lucy, but tensions rise as Oh hesitates to reunite with the Boov during the final evacuation.
Heartbroken and hurt from the lies, Tip eventually tracks down her mother with Oh’s help, culminating in a heartfelt reunion. With the Gorg mothership looming closer, Oh heroically steps up, drawing the Gorg’s attention by revealing the stolen Shusher rock with its hidden treasure of Gorg larvae—signifying the survival of the Gorg species. In a surprising twist, the Gorg Commander, initially perceived as a villain, turns out to be a gentle creature.
In the aftermath, two weeks later, harmony is restored as humans return to their homes, and Oh successfully throws his long-awaited party, inviting both humans and Boov to celebrate together. As music fills the air, the Boov experience dancing for the first time, marking a new beginning for relationships among species and a hope for peaceful coexistence. The party gains an unexpected audience as ships from other planets, including the Gorg, arrive, responding to Oh’s invitation, solidifying a joyful chapter for all involved.
Home Timeline: Every Key Event in Order
15 key events in the order they happen, from “The Boov Arrive on Earth” to “Celebration of Unity”. 15 events name a place, across 11 locations.
- 1
The Boov Arrive on Earth
The Boov, a species known for their ability to run away, identify Earth as a suitable place to escape the Gorg, their relentless enemy. Led by Captain Smek, they initiate a peaceful and bloodless invasion, relocating humans to a designated area called Humanstown in Australia.
Where:Earth
- 2
Oh's Housewarming Party
Oh, a Boov who thinks differently from his peers, decides to throw a housewarming party. His efforts to connect with other Boov are met with resistance, as they standardly reject friendship with him.
Where:Oh's Apartment
- 3
Tip's Journey Begins
In search of her mother Lucy, Tip, a preteen girl, drives through her hometown, angry at the Boov for the invasion that separated her from her family. She takes her calico cat, Pig, along, embodying her determination to reunite with her mom.
Where:Home City
- 4
The E-invite Catastrophe
Oh mistakenly sends a mass party invite to all alien races in the galaxy, including the Gorg, attracting their wrath towards him. This triggers a dangerous chase as the Gorg will arrive in 40 hours to exact revenge.
When:40 hours Where:Boov Command Center
- 5
Tip and Oh's Encounter
Oh encounters Tip at a convenience store while attempting to hide from the Boov. Their confrontation reveals Tip's hatred for the Boov, but necessity forces them to cooperate as they face common challenges.
Where:Convenience Store
- 6
The Transformation of Slushious
Frustrated when her car won’t start, Tip finds herself in a precarious moment. Oh transforms her broken vehicle into a hovering craft powered by Slushies, effectively embarking on a quest to find her mother.
Where:City
- 7
Travel to Paris
Oh and Tip set out on their journey to the Boov Command Center located in Paris to trace Lucy's whereabouts. This adventure takes them across modern landscapes as they learn to work together despite their differences.
Where:Paris
- 8
The Command Center Challenge
At the floating Eiffel Tower, Oh successfully accesses his account to cancel the invite just moments before it reaches the Gorg. This race against time showcases Oh’s ingenuity amidst the chaos of their circumstances.
Where:Boov Command Center, Eiffel Tower
- 9
Discovery of Lucy's Location
Using Tip's brain to assist with the search, they discover Lucy's location in Australia. This pivotal moment reinforces the bond between Oh and Tip, as they rally to find her mother amidst the growing danger from the Gorg.
Where:Boov Command Center
- 10
Evading the Gorg
While on their way to Australia, Tip and Oh face a close encounter with the Gorg's ship. They narrowly escape by knocking it down and discovering it's a drone, presenting further challenges they must overcome.
Where:Near Australia
Show the other 5 events of Home Hide the last 5 events
- 11
Emotional Rift
Upon reaching Australia, Tip is devastated to discover that Oh had intentions to abandon her and evacuate with the Boov instead. This breach of trust leads Tip to angrily confront Oh, leaving their friendship in jeopardy.
Where:Australia
- 12
The Gorg Threat Intensifies
As the Gorg mothership approaches, Oh takes a bold step and uses a Gorg chip found during their adventures to maneuver away from danger. This distinguishes Oh as a brave and strategic thinker among the Boov.
Where:Boov Ship
- 13
Reunion with Lucy
After several trials, Oh helps Tip locate her mother Lucy. Their emotional reunion is a heartwarming moment that brings closure to the journey while also showcasing the impact of their bond.
Where:Australia
- 14
Face-off with the Gorg Commander
With tensions at an all-time high, Oh bravely confronts the Gorg Commander in hopes of returning the stolen rock. This gesture reveals the Commander as a misunderstood creature, changing the dynamics between the species.
Where:Earth
- 15
Celebration of Unity
Two weeks following the Gorg's departure, humans return to their homes, and Oh finally holds the party he envisioned. In a historic moment, Boov and humans come together, showcasing newfound friendship and joy.
Where:Oh's Apartment
Who Are the Main Characters in Home?
3 characters, among them Oh (Jim Parsons), Tip (Rihanna) and Captain Smek (Steve Martin): who each one is and the part they play in the story.
- O(
Oh (Jim Parsons)
Oh is a free-spirited Boov who stands out among his species due to his excitement for life and yearning for friendship. His courage and resourcefulness are pivotal as he endeavors to help Tip find her mother while also grappling with the pressures of his own community. Oh's transformation throughout the film highlights themes of self-acceptance and bravery.
- 👽 Boov
- 💪 Courage
- 🎉 Party
- T(
Tip (Rihanna)
Tip is a determined preteen girl who displays resilience and resourcefulness as she searches for her mother after being separated during the Boov invasion. Though initially filled with anger towards the Boov, her character grows through her bond with Oh, showcasing themes of trust and understanding. Tip represents the human spirit's resolve to fight for loved ones.
- 👧 Human
- 🌟 Determination
- 🤝 Allies
- CS
Captain Smek (Steve Martin)
Captain Smek is the leader of the Boov, characterized by his comedic leadership style and self-serving demeanor. He struggles with feelings of insecurity and the consequences of his decisions, especially regarding the invasion of Earth. Despite his flaws, Smek serves as a foil to Oh, ultimately showcasing the potential for growth and change.
- 👨✈️ Leader
- 😂 Comedy
- 🔄 Growth
Where and When Is Home Set?
Home is set in Earth, Australia and Paris. Here is why the place matters to the story.
When
The timeline for the movie is contemporary, reflecting modern-day society where humans coexist with advanced technology and extraterrestrial beings. This setting portrays issues such as displacement and the search for belonging against the backdrop of a humorous and light-hearted narrative.
Where
Earth, Australia, Paris
The movie primarily takes place on Earth, specifically showcasing locations like Paris, where the Boov Command Center is situated in the floating Eiffel Tower, and Australia, where the Boov relocate humans. These settings serve as the backdrop for the conflict between the Boov and the Gorg, highlighting both the serene human environments and the sci-fi elements introduced by the alien characters.
- 🗺️ Locations
- 🌍 Earth
What Are the Themes of Home?
3 ideas the story keeps returning to, among them Friendship, Home and Adventure.
-
01
Friendship
The theme of friendship is central to the storyline, particularly between the Boov named Oh and the human girl Tip. Their relationship evolves from mistrust and conflict to collaboration and mutual support. The journey underscores the importance of understanding and accepting differences in order to build lasting bonds.
-
02
Home
The concept of home is explored deeply through the experiences of both the Boov and humans. The Boov initially invade Earth in search of a refuge, while Tip's quest is driven by her desire to reunite with her mother and return to their home. Ultimately, the film conveys that home is not just a place, but the connections we form with others.
-
03
Adventure
Adventure is a driving force in the plot as Oh and Tip navigate through various challenges to locate Lucy and fend off the Gorg. Their journey takes them through comedic scenarios and high-stakes encounters, illustrating the spirit of exploration and resilience amidst adversity.
What Kind of Film Is Home?
Hopeful in tone, with fast pacing and a moderate story, going by the plot summary.
- Tone
- Hopeful
- Pacing
- Fast
- Story
- Moderate
- Intensity
- Medium
- Ending
- Happy
A fast-paced and visually inventive animated adventure that feels hopeful and heartwarming, focusing on an unlikely friendship between an alien and a girl searching for her mother amidst an intergalactic misunderstanding.
- hopeful
- adventurous
- heartwarming
- whimsical
- optimistic
- alien friendship
- mother daughter relationship
- inter-species cooperation
- finding home
- self-discovery
Content notes: alien invasion, family separation.
Quiz
How well do you remember Home? Test yourself on the story.
Where to Watch Home
Rent or buy it from Amazon Video and Apple TV Store. US availability and prices from JustWatch.
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