Better Watch Out is a 2016 psychological horror Christmas film directed by Chris Peckover, from a script he co-wrote with Zack Kahn.[5] It stars Olivia DeJonge, Levi Miller and Ed Oxenbould. The film had its world premiere at Fantastic Fest on September 22, 2016, and was released in the United States on October 6, 2017, by Well Go USA and in Australia on November 23, 2017, by Rialto Distribution.
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Summary:
“Better Watch Out” is a suspenseful horror-comedy film directed by Chris Peckover, released in 2016. The story centers around 12-year-old Luke Lerner (Levi Miller) and his babysitter, Ashley (Olivia DeJonge), during the Christmas season. Set in a suburban neighborhood, the movie unfolds in a seemingly ordinary setting, but as the night progresses, it takes an unexpected and sinister turn.
The film begins with Luke, a smart and imaginative boy, eagerly anticipating the arrival of his babysitter, Ashley, who he harbors a secret crush on. Ashley, a responsible and mature teenager, comes over to watch over Luke while his parents, Robert and Deandra (played by Patrick Warburton and Virginia Madsen), attend a holiday party.
As the night begins, Luke tries to impress Ashley with his knowledge of horror movies and witty sense of humor. The two seem to share a friendly bond and enjoy each other’s company. However, things take a dark turn when they start to receive mysterious and eerie phone calls. Initially, they dismiss it as a prank, but soon, the calls become more threatening, and Luke becomes increasingly paranoid.
As the tension escalates, the house is suddenly attacked by an unknown intruder wearing a mask, terrorizing the pair. Luke’s friend, Garrett (Ed Oxenbould), also arrives at the house, adding to the chaos and confusion. Together, the three attempt to defend themselves and survive the terrifying ordeal.
As the night progresses, shocking secrets are revealed, and the film takes unexpected twists and turns, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. Luke, Ashley, and Garrett are forced to navigate a web of deception and betrayal while struggling to outsmart the masked intruder.
“Better Watch Out” skillfully blends elements of suspense, horror, and dark comedy. The film subverts traditional horror tropes, presenting unique and unpredictable storylines that captivate viewers throughout the entire runtime. The performances of the young actors, Levi Miller and Olivia DeJonge, are particularly impressive, as they convincingly portray their characters’ vulnerability and resourcefulness.
Furthermore, the movie explores themes of adolescence, the complexity of relationships, and the consequences of actions. It delves into the dark side of human nature, particularly the lengths people will go to protect themselves and the ones they care about.
The direction and cinematography of “Better Watch Out” also deserve praise, creating an atmosphere that perfectly captures the holiday spirit juxtaposed with a sense of impending danger. The film’s score adds to the tension and suspense, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
As the story unfolds, viewers are taken on a rollercoaster ride of emotions, as they become invested in the characters’ fates and are kept guessing until the very end. The film’s twists and surprises will leave audiences in awe, appreciating the cleverness and creativity of the storytelling.
In conclusion, “Better Watch Out” is a masterfully crafted horror-comedy that stands out for its originality and unexpected narrative. The movie successfully delivers a thrilling and chilling experience while exploring deeper themes and compelling character dynamics. Whether a fan of horror or comedy, this film has something to offer, making it a must-watch for those seeking an enjoyable and suspenseful holiday-themed movie.