Movie Review of The Babysitter (2017)
Synopsis
The Babysitter, directed by McG, is a dark comedy horror film that revolves around a young boy named Cole Johnson, played by Judah Lewis. Cole is a 12-year-old child who struggles with being bullied at school and is also rather fascinated by his alluring babysitter, Bee, portrayed by Samara Weaving. On a seemingly ordinary night, when Cole’s parents head out for an evening away, they leave him in the care of Bee, who seems to have an extraordinary bond with him, making him feel safe and comfortable.
However, the evening takes a sinister turn when Cole decides to stay up late to observe what his babysitter and her friends get up to after he is supposed to be asleep. To his horror, he discovers that Bee and her group are not merely indulging in childish antics; rather, they are involved in a satanic cult ritual, aiming to summon a demon by sacrificing a babysittee. This revelation turns Cole’s safe haven into a nightmarish scenario as he struggles to outwit Bee and her friends who are hell-bent on fulfilling their dark intentions.
As Cole navigates this unexpected peril, he relies on his intelligence, quick thinking, and occasional comic relief in a situation that feels overwhelmingly dire. The juxtaposition of horror and comedy creates a unique viewing experience, where tension is often broken by humour, making the film an engaging ride filled with unexpected twists.
Actors and Characters
- Judah Lewis as Cole Johnson: A quirky 12-year-old boy who is caught in a perilous situation with his babysitter.
- Samara Weaving as Bee: The seemingly perfect babysitter with a hidden sinister side.
- Robbie Amell as Max: Bee’s charming but dim-witted boyfriend who is drawn into the chaos.
- Bella Thorne as Allison: One of Bee’s friends who relishes the night’s sinister activities.
- Emily Alyn Lind as Melanie: Another member of Bee’s group, who shows complicity in the night’s events.
- Hayley Anne Martin as Jonah: A friend of Cole, providing comic relief and context in the narrative.
- Ken Jeong as Murderer (cameo): A brief yet memorable role that adds a comedic touch to the terror unfolding.
Conclusion
The Babysitter succeeds in blending genres in a way that appeals to both horror aficionados and those looking for a comedic escape. The film cleverly balances its dark themes with light-hearted humour, making it a captivating watch. The performances, particularly by Samara Weaving as Bee, provide a perfect mix of charm and menace, effectively drawing viewers into her layered character. Judah Lewis also finds a way to shine through his portrayal of Cole, embodying a character that is both relatable and engaging in his fight for survival.
Moreover, the supporting cast, including Bella Thorne and Robbie Amell, contribute to the camaraderie and chaos that epitomise the film’s ethos. The cinematography and style reflect a teenage sensibility, while still maintaining a level of suspense crucial for horror narratives.
The screenplay teeters on the edge of both flippancy and seriousness, delivering moments of both tension and laughter, making it clear that McG aimed for a specific tone, which he successfully navigated throughout the film. The cleverly written dialogue enhances the film’s appeal, with several lines positioning it as a cult classic for the younger generation drawn to horror-comedy.
In summary, The Babysitter is an entertaining romp that marries the innocence of childhood with the carnage of horror. It is a testament to the fact that sometimes the most vulnerable can be the ones to vanquish evil, and it reinforces the notion that not everything is as it seems—especially when it comes to those we trust.
Overall, I would score The Babysitter a solid 7.5 out of 10. It’s a film that entertains while delivering an undercurrent of commentary on trust, adolescence, and the dark fantasies that often occupy the minds of youth. For anyone looking for a light-hearted thrill ride with a playful take on horror tropes, The Babysitter might just be the perfect film to indulge in.
