Halloween is a time for spooky fun, and deciding whether to trick-or-treat can be tough. But even if you’re staying in for a movie night, you can still have a blast! “A Babysitter’s Guide to Monster Hunting” offers creepy fun for the whole family, reminiscent of classics like “Adventures in Babysitting,” “Monsters Inc.,” and “The Spiderwick Chronicles.”
I remember watching horror movies as a kid that would terrify me. Now, my own kids enjoy “Stranger Things,” but need something lighter afterward. This movie strikes a good balance.
A Dive into “A Babysitter’s Guide to Monster Hunting”
Based on Joe Ballarini’s book, the movie introduces us to Kelly Ferguson (Tamara Smart), a young girl scared of things that go bump in the night. After a creepy opening scene, my son wanted to join us in our bed!
The Plot Thickens
Kelly’s babysitting gig takes a turn when Jacob (Ian Ho), the child she’s watching, is kidnapped by monsters. Tom Felton (Draco Malfoy from “Harry Potter”) plays the Grand Guignol, a.k.a. The Boogeyman, who wants to use Jacob’s dreams for evil. The Grand Guignol uses Toadies, cute but snaggle-toothed monsters, to kidnap Jacob.
Enter Liz Lerue: The Ultimate Babysitter
Just when Kelly’s about to panic, Liz Lerue (Oona Laurence) rides in on a motorcycle with a baby strapped to her! Liz is the Vice President of a secret society of babysitters who protect kids from monsters.
With the help of tech genius Berna Vincent (Troy Leigh-Anne Johnson), creature expert Cassie Zhen (Lynn Masako Cheng), and potions master Curtis Critter (Ty Consiglio), Kelly and Liz set out to rescue Jacob and defeat the Grand Guignol. Liz uses the Babysitter’s Guide, a book with monster-hunting wisdom, helping Kelly realize she’s not alone.
Friendship, Confidence, and Facing Fears
The movie teaches valuable lessons. Kelly and Liz are a great team, supporting each other through tough times. Liz helps Kelly gain confidence and realize that being different is awesome. The film highlights the importance of self-acceptance and standing up for yourself, even when facing mean girls or scary monsters.
The Climax
Jacob is taken to the Boogeyman’s Nightmare Nursery. He tries to stay awake by consuming caffeine to prevent the Grand Guignol from creating nightmares. After stealing an amulet from Peggy Drood (Indya Moore), Kelly uses her math skills and a special potion to fight the Grand Guignol.
Final Thoughts
While my teen found the ending disappointing, “A Babysitter’s Guide to Monster Hunting” is a fun, PG-rated movie night choice. It’s not too scary, has some good laughs, and definitely leaves room for a sequel. It is family-friendly and offers meaningful lessons about friendship and courage. Look out for Liz Lerue in your area!
