464 recensioni
Let me give you some advice: the second that you finish reading this review, get off imdb.com, steer clear of any ratings or stories about this movie, don't watch any trailers, and don't ask anyone about it. Just find the movie, and watch it. Go in with a totally clean slate and enjoy.
I don't really want to say much more than that out of fear of ruining any element of the movie. I can tell you that it's part scary, part funny, largely surprising, and totally entertaining. The performances are great. I don't want to describe why they're great because that could give something away. Just know that they're superb.
Plot-wise, the most I can say is that an attractive female babysitter comes over to watch a junior high school boy while his parents go out for the night. After that, visitors arrive and stuff happens. Lots of stuff.
This is by far the shortest review I've ever written, but I've said all that I want to say. Now go watch the movie.
I don't really want to say much more than that out of fear of ruining any element of the movie. I can tell you that it's part scary, part funny, largely surprising, and totally entertaining. The performances are great. I don't want to describe why they're great because that could give something away. Just know that they're superb.
Plot-wise, the most I can say is that an attractive female babysitter comes over to watch a junior high school boy while his parents go out for the night. After that, visitors arrive and stuff happens. Lots of stuff.
This is by far the shortest review I've ever written, but I've said all that I want to say. Now go watch the movie.
- Jared_Andrews
- 23 dic 2017
- Permalink
- pawanpunjabithewriter
- 6 ago 2020
- Permalink
Better Watch Out (2016)
*** (out of 4)
Ashley (Olivia DeJonge) is about to leave town but before doing that she agrees to babysit Luke (Levi Miller), which is something she has done for many years. After his parents leave the two sit down for pizza and horror movies but then someone breaks into the house and the terror begins.
BETTER WATCH OUT is Christmas themed horror film that is getting quite a bit of attention. The film has some calling it a great film while others are calling it one of the worst films of the year. It's funny that the film is getting such a wide responce but I think both sides could agree that the film made their blood boil. I say that because there's a twist that happens in the story and it goes in a direction that was quite brave and I'm sure even Hitchcock would have tipped his hat.
The problem with this twist is that if you're going to try something like it you had better know what to do with it and how to handle it. Director Chris Peckover also co-wrote the screenplay with Zack Kahn and I give both men credit for trying to do something different. Sure, the film's first quarter borrows from some other horror movies but I must give them credit for keeping me off guard as I was never quite sure where the film was going to go or how it was going to play out.
I don't think the second half of the film is nearly as good as the beginning but at the same time it kept me glued to what was going on. I've got to avoid spoilers but I will say that my blood was boiling at one of the characters and how things were being played out and perhaps this is why so many people are hating the film. It is a bit mean-spirited and it is a cruel. I think a lot of people are hating the film because of the emotions that it is making them feel and I completely understand that. Even I got angry at the movie but when it was over I couldn't help but feel that a good movie should make you feel these things.
I really thought DeJonge was exceptionally good in the lead role. Her character goes through a lot of different things throughout the picture and the actress nailed all of them flawlessly. Miller and Ed Oxenbould were both extremely good as well and you've also got Virginia Madsen in a small role as the mom. Technically speaking the film is quite impressive and there was some nice tension built up during the opening scenes.
BETTER WATCH OUT is a film that I'm going to recommend because I think it succeeds at what it attempted to do. It's not flawless by any stretch of the imagination but I give it a lot of credit for trying to do something different.
*** (out of 4)
Ashley (Olivia DeJonge) is about to leave town but before doing that she agrees to babysit Luke (Levi Miller), which is something she has done for many years. After his parents leave the two sit down for pizza and horror movies but then someone breaks into the house and the terror begins.
BETTER WATCH OUT is Christmas themed horror film that is getting quite a bit of attention. The film has some calling it a great film while others are calling it one of the worst films of the year. It's funny that the film is getting such a wide responce but I think both sides could agree that the film made their blood boil. I say that because there's a twist that happens in the story and it goes in a direction that was quite brave and I'm sure even Hitchcock would have tipped his hat.
The problem with this twist is that if you're going to try something like it you had better know what to do with it and how to handle it. Director Chris Peckover also co-wrote the screenplay with Zack Kahn and I give both men credit for trying to do something different. Sure, the film's first quarter borrows from some other horror movies but I must give them credit for keeping me off guard as I was never quite sure where the film was going to go or how it was going to play out.
I don't think the second half of the film is nearly as good as the beginning but at the same time it kept me glued to what was going on. I've got to avoid spoilers but I will say that my blood was boiling at one of the characters and how things were being played out and perhaps this is why so many people are hating the film. It is a bit mean-spirited and it is a cruel. I think a lot of people are hating the film because of the emotions that it is making them feel and I completely understand that. Even I got angry at the movie but when it was over I couldn't help but feel that a good movie should make you feel these things.
I really thought DeJonge was exceptionally good in the lead role. Her character goes through a lot of different things throughout the picture and the actress nailed all of them flawlessly. Miller and Ed Oxenbould were both extremely good as well and you've also got Virginia Madsen in a small role as the mom. Technically speaking the film is quite impressive and there was some nice tension built up during the opening scenes.
BETTER WATCH OUT is a film that I'm going to recommend because I think it succeeds at what it attempted to do. It's not flawless by any stretch of the imagination but I give it a lot of credit for trying to do something different.
- Michael_Elliott
- 24 dic 2017
- Permalink
Unexpectedly for me, the film turned out great, with unpredictable twists, I expected something more banal. The main character played well, the film recalled its crazy atmosphere - the house that Jack built. A little disappointed with the ending.
The film begins as any other generic home invasion thriller, and truth be told, I was not getting the vibe at first. I was disappointed and quite annoyed with the series of events that felt so typical and devoid of any excitement. But then, around minute 30th, comes a twist, and the scenario changed, and I was hooked right then and there.
Although I cannot say much cause even a small word could spoil the story and subsequently ruin your fun, I will tell you this, the story or the trajectory it took to be precise, caught me off guard; I did not expect it.
Now, the movie does have several logical fallacies, or loopholes, in layman's terms, but it was still thrilling to watch, and as I said, I didn't see any of it coming, which certainly added to my overall enjoyment.
Although I cannot say much cause even a small word could spoil the story and subsequently ruin your fun, I will tell you this, the story or the trajectory it took to be precise, caught me off guard; I did not expect it.
Now, the movie does have several logical fallacies, or loopholes, in layman's terms, but it was still thrilling to watch, and as I said, I didn't see any of it coming, which certainly added to my overall enjoyment.
- SoumikBanerjee1996
- 19 lug 2023
- Permalink
I really don't understand the really bad reviews. Yes, this isn't the best horror movie, but I liked the different take on the slasher theme. All in all a nice and weird take on the slasher genre.
- jimvandemoter-50236
- 13 dic 2019
- Permalink
...and you won't be disappointed. If you're looking for too much realism or an airtight plot, you look in vain. Despite characters that are mostly paper thin, the actors rise above with enough authority to satisfy all but the most jaded audiences. As well, the production design, cinematography, and so forth stretch its relatively low budget to maximum effect. No, this isn't on a level with Michael Haneke's unsettling "Funny Games" or its American remake; think of it more as a John Hughesian teen comedy that takes a dark turn into violent absurdity. It truly is a comic book potboiler in the vein of "Tales From the Crypt," crude tongue wedged in its cheek, nonsensical plot devices on full display. I understand fully why so many wags here hated it, but despite its flaws, I had fun with its earnest attempt to offer up its twisted take on teen angst. The three Aussie leads will all be actors to keep an eye on in the future, that much is certain.
Man, what a ride! I love it when I know absolutely nothing about a low budget film and don't expect much - and then get completely surprised at how good it actually is.
This little gem is an unpredictable, often times either darkly funny or deeply disturbing thrill ride that should not be me missed by genre (or generally film) fans.
It's beautifully shot, acted and written, and I'm sure we'll hear more from filmmaker Chris Peckover in the future. This is clever, inventive low-budget filmmaking at its best, and it goes to show that a lack of money is not an obstacle that can't be overcome by sheer talent.
Good stuff: 8 stars out of 10.
Favorite films: IMDb.com/list/mkjOKvqlSBs/
Lesser-Known Masterpieces: imdb.com/list/ls070242495/
Favorite Low-Budget and B-Movies: imdb.com/list/ls054808375/
Favorite TV-Shows reviewed: imdb.com/list/ls075552387/
This little gem is an unpredictable, often times either darkly funny or deeply disturbing thrill ride that should not be me missed by genre (or generally film) fans.
It's beautifully shot, acted and written, and I'm sure we'll hear more from filmmaker Chris Peckover in the future. This is clever, inventive low-budget filmmaking at its best, and it goes to show that a lack of money is not an obstacle that can't be overcome by sheer talent.
Good stuff: 8 stars out of 10.
Favorite films: IMDb.com/list/mkjOKvqlSBs/
Lesser-Known Masterpieces: imdb.com/list/ls070242495/
Favorite Low-Budget and B-Movies: imdb.com/list/ls054808375/
Favorite TV-Shows reviewed: imdb.com/list/ls075552387/
- gogoschka-1
- 16 gen 2018
- Permalink
Without giving spoilers:
don't babysit teenagers!
this movie is different from what the trailer makes it seem, I didn't see the plot twist coming. the main kid does a great job. disturbing yet fun, if you like Christmas themed horror.
this movie is different from what the trailer makes it seem, I didn't see the plot twist coming. the main kid does a great job. disturbing yet fun, if you like Christmas themed horror.
- easyasiali
- 14 mar 2018
- Permalink
- marucciolu
- 18 dic 2020
- Permalink
When i started to watch this, i thought this was just gonna be your run of the mill home intrusion slasher. but this really surprised me. with an unexpected twist and cleverly written. the actors were great and this movie really kept me interested. definately worth a watch
BEWARE OF BOGUS REVIEWS & REVIEWERS. SOME REVIEWERS HAVE ONLY ONE REVIEW. WHEN ITS A POSITIVE REVIEW THAT TELLS ME THEY WERE INVOLVED WITH THE PRODUCTION & THAT IS WHAT IS GOING ON HERE FOR THIS FILM! NOW I HAVE REVIEWED OVER 300 Christmas MOVIES. I HAVE NO AGENDA. I AM FARE.
This film is a twisted take on Christmas. It is not for family's and the evilness in every frame of this film is not for me. However I recommend this to people that like inventive horror films and horror fans in general. This is not a film I am a fan of but I did not let that cloud my judgment. It is "Original & Well made". On top of that it is scary!
In this story a household is being attacked but the enemy is very unexpected and by the end of the night who will survive?
This film is a twisted take on Christmas. It is not for family's and the evilness in every frame of this film is not for me. However I recommend this to people that like inventive horror films and horror fans in general. This is not a film I am a fan of but I did not let that cloud my judgment. It is "Original & Well made". On top of that it is scary!
In this story a household is being attacked but the enemy is very unexpected and by the end of the night who will survive?
- Christmas-Reviewer
- 14 ott 2017
- Permalink
- phoenixinvictus
- 15 ott 2017
- Permalink
- horrorgasm
- 13 ott 2017
- Permalink
During the holiday season, the Lerners (Patrick Warburton and Virginia Madden) leave their twelve-year-old son, Luke (Levi Miller) with the always responsible Ashley (Olivia DeJonge) while they go out for a night on the town. Luke, with the help of friend Garrett (Ed Oxenbould), has decided tonight is the night to make a move on longtime sitter Ashley. Before Luke can make his move, an unexpected intruder attempts to break in. With them being in the safe suburbs, the two are on their own as they have to navigate a home invasion with twists and turns at every corner.
This film keeps you guessing as each scene evolves. Director Chris Peckover, along with writing partner Zack Kahn, crafted an excellent story that drops hints at the big reveal throughout the movie, but never enough to give too much away. Keeping the film confined to the house keeps everything tight, which could hinder the production, but in this case, it let's the viewer experience everything with the cast. Setting this during Christmas helps make this work and actually adds to some scenes.
The acting in this film is exceptional, especially Olivia DeJonge and Levi Miller. Miller, for instance, unravels and becomes unpredictable as the film goes on. Olivia DeJonge brings a sense of realism to the situation. Ed Oxenbould is cast to perfection as the timid best friend. All around, the entire cast brings this film to life.
When you break down the film, there are some issues. The film is paced at a good speed, but some beats are rushed while others drag. Some scenes can become uncomfortable, which is good in a way, but easing up could let the scenes breathe.
Better Watch Out takes the traditional home invasion scenario and turns it on its head. The cast is tight and the setting is as well. Once this film gets going, it's hard to tell what track it's going to stay on. All the way down to the final shot, Better Watch Out will keep you guessing.
This film keeps you guessing as each scene evolves. Director Chris Peckover, along with writing partner Zack Kahn, crafted an excellent story that drops hints at the big reveal throughout the movie, but never enough to give too much away. Keeping the film confined to the house keeps everything tight, which could hinder the production, but in this case, it let's the viewer experience everything with the cast. Setting this during Christmas helps make this work and actually adds to some scenes.
The acting in this film is exceptional, especially Olivia DeJonge and Levi Miller. Miller, for instance, unravels and becomes unpredictable as the film goes on. Olivia DeJonge brings a sense of realism to the situation. Ed Oxenbould is cast to perfection as the timid best friend. All around, the entire cast brings this film to life.
When you break down the film, there are some issues. The film is paced at a good speed, but some beats are rushed while others drag. Some scenes can become uncomfortable, which is good in a way, but easing up could let the scenes breathe.
Better Watch Out takes the traditional home invasion scenario and turns it on its head. The cast is tight and the setting is as well. Once this film gets going, it's hard to tell what track it's going to stay on. All the way down to the final shot, Better Watch Out will keep you guessing.
- S_dot_M_dot
- 2 dic 2021
- Permalink
There's nothing funny about this movie, so I don't know why it is labelled as a comedy first. I didn't laugh once. It's also not scary, but I can see how it would be mislabeled as a horror movie because of the themes of killing and terrorizing. But its more of a thriller than anything. And it is a twisted one. So watch if you are in the mood for a twisted thriller.
- isantistao
- 17 set 2021
- Permalink
Having completely unacknowledged this horror for quite some time, I actually removed it from my mind. It caught me by surprise one day, bought it, and here we are reviewing a Christmas film in the peak of summer season (sounds about right...). So, naturally, I had no idea what I was getting into except that it resembled a home invasion film. Oh boy, was I wrong. A babysitter is summoned to watch over a family's son and house whilst the parents go out. The son is hoping to get to "second base" with the babysitter, but his plans are paused as the house is seemingly invaded by a masked individual. Let the festivities, begin! Reminiscent to 'Home Alone', it's a story involving mind games where the residents are at an advantage for knowing the layout of their abode, with a specific scene so self-aware that it actually admits to imitating that very film. But, it's not all sweet like gingerbread men and candy canes. Oh no, there is one heck of a twist that I just cannot verbalise, for it would ruin the surprise. And well, who doesn't like a surprise gift at Christmas? Writer/Director Peckover seamlessly persuades the audience's minds into a false sense of security, luring them down the route of obviousness. We are now Christmas pudding in his hands, and he moulds his way through many well executed twists and turns that unsurprisingly caught me off guard. Deranged, yet psychologically entertaining. DeJonge and Miller give fantastic performances, particularly the latter who was clearly enjoying the role. It's well shot, with technical inventiveness, and includes a rather funny screenplay, but above all it is fun. Good old fashion fun. Frequently, the pacing does dip and takes some time for the thrills to build back up. Also, as elaborate as the conclusion was, it just wasn't believable. Alas, the film knows what it is. A disposable thriller that injects some blood-soaked holiday spirit into Christmas. This will certainly be a new favourite of mine during the holiday season.
- TheMovieDiorama
- 1 lug 2018
- Permalink
Best go into watching it without reading reviews , spoilers or watching trailers. If u need a new film on your Xmas list this is one for a chilled evening.
Is this what we have come to? A horror movie that destroys our ability to connect to one another, just for the sake of subverting expectations?
Fine, I know I'm no connoisseur of horror movies. But in every horror movie that I have actually enjoyed or admired, we ended with a sense of renewed faith in humanity - because horror, like an abyss, can bring us catharsis. Looking at something horrific that should not be allowed to exist, we realize how important it is to connect with our fellow human beings. "Alien," "The Cabin in the Woods," "The Thing," "It Follows," even "Resident Evil" managed a smidgen of that.
But "Better Watch Out" just portrays evil and laughs at it, because it mocks us! Ha ha ha! It portrays the lazy, self-contented n'er-do-wells of American society. I cannot believe that I sound like such an old man as I write this. But I feel as if this movie tried, in quite a unique and ingenious way, to suck the soul out of me.
Doubtless many people will dismiss this review as the ramblings of a prude. But watch the movie and see for yourself how manipulative it is. I reserve the 1 star rating for movies that genuinely offend me, and this one did.
Fine, I know I'm no connoisseur of horror movies. But in every horror movie that I have actually enjoyed or admired, we ended with a sense of renewed faith in humanity - because horror, like an abyss, can bring us catharsis. Looking at something horrific that should not be allowed to exist, we realize how important it is to connect with our fellow human beings. "Alien," "The Cabin in the Woods," "The Thing," "It Follows," even "Resident Evil" managed a smidgen of that.
But "Better Watch Out" just portrays evil and laughs at it, because it mocks us! Ha ha ha! It portrays the lazy, self-contented n'er-do-wells of American society. I cannot believe that I sound like such an old man as I write this. But I feel as if this movie tried, in quite a unique and ingenious way, to suck the soul out of me.
Doubtless many people will dismiss this review as the ramblings of a prude. But watch the movie and see for yourself how manipulative it is. I reserve the 1 star rating for movies that genuinely offend me, and this one did.
- olympicator
- 4 dic 2020
- Permalink
My 680th review damn IMDb got rid of the number so I have to do it myself anyway I really enjoy Better Watch Out for what it is! Levi Miller and Ed Oxenbould are very fun to watch; I love how everything plays out. Definitely would wanna avoid spoilers I agree with who says that, I am very satisfied with the epilogue. Better Watch Out is not for everyone which is understandable because it has some outrageous stuff regardless I think the film is spectacular!!
- UniqueParticle
- 12 dic 2019
- Permalink
The appealing Olivia DeJonge ("The Visit") stars as a teenaged babysitter looking after a pre-teen charge (Levi Miller, "Jasper Jones") at Christmastime. Soon, it seems as if they are being menaced by a psycho killer, but appearances can be deceiving. The plot takes a turn where the menace is coming from a place that DeJonge didn't expect.
Admittedly, for this viewer, this was rough going for a while, with too much bad dialogue and too many annoying characters. If you're anything like me, you'll build up such a contempt for the weaselly antagonist that you'll watch this through to the end in the hopes that they eventually get their comeuppance. And make no mistake: this person is despicable, using and manipulating others to their hearts' content. As the story deepens, co-writer / director Chris Peckover is able to maintain a compelling grimness as these macabre "games" are played out.
The cast does a good job with their roles, with DeJonge remaining angry and feisty throughout, never giving up the fight. She, at least, gives the audience a character with rooting interest. Ed Oxenbould ("Paper Planes"), Aleks Mikic ('Preacher'), and Dacre Montgomery ('Stranger Things') co-star, with token name actors / veterans Virginia Madsen ("Candyman") and Patrick Warburton ('Seinfeld') relegated to brief cameo appearances as Millers' parents.
This viewer has tried not to spoil too much here, knowing that potential viewers will appreciate this more if THEY don't know what to expect. I will say this: the filmmakers clearly do know how to manipulate their audience and get them involved; this is a purely visceral movie.
Six out of 10.
Admittedly, for this viewer, this was rough going for a while, with too much bad dialogue and too many annoying characters. If you're anything like me, you'll build up such a contempt for the weaselly antagonist that you'll watch this through to the end in the hopes that they eventually get their comeuppance. And make no mistake: this person is despicable, using and manipulating others to their hearts' content. As the story deepens, co-writer / director Chris Peckover is able to maintain a compelling grimness as these macabre "games" are played out.
The cast does a good job with their roles, with DeJonge remaining angry and feisty throughout, never giving up the fight. She, at least, gives the audience a character with rooting interest. Ed Oxenbould ("Paper Planes"), Aleks Mikic ('Preacher'), and Dacre Montgomery ('Stranger Things') co-star, with token name actors / veterans Virginia Madsen ("Candyman") and Patrick Warburton ('Seinfeld') relegated to brief cameo appearances as Millers' parents.
This viewer has tried not to spoil too much here, knowing that potential viewers will appreciate this more if THEY don't know what to expect. I will say this: the filmmakers clearly do know how to manipulate their audience and get them involved; this is a purely visceral movie.
Six out of 10.
- Hey_Sweden
- 1 dic 2020
- Permalink