"Adventures in Babysitting" is an awkwardly amusing movie centering around the many mishaps and pitfalls that occur when a single session of the movie's namesake spirals out of control. Though simple in principle, this narrative is ultimately the film's greatest make-or-break point, as it can be challenging to rectify at times what couldn't be described as anything less than a series of exceedingly unfortunate and coincidental events. As a feel-good flick that doesn't take itself seriously in this slightest, it still has an inherent degree of charm, however; especially for those who have a taste for the 80's aesthetic. At the end of the day, if enough suspension of disbelief can be granted, it is a solid watch for a more mature audience.
Concerning the plot, much of what happens after the main character, Chris, accepts a babysitting job can be best summarized as one hurdle after another; each requiring a leap of logic to clear, albeit with differing degrees. After receiving a distress call from her friend Brenda, Chris is subsequently blackmailed by the subjects of her sitting, Brad and Sarah, into taking them with her as she sets off for the city with neighboring acquaintance Daryl also in tow. One flat tire later, and the narrative slowly begins to unwind as it sends the four skipping from one tense scenario into the next; from the revenge plans of their tow driver and a den of chop shop criminals to a blues joint and a confrontation between rival gangs on a train, the fast and loose storytelling is a masterwork in plausible mayhem. This, for better or worse, sets an awkward tone in general as character interactions are generally lighthearted on one hand while the imminant death from the crime boss and his goons looms ever-present on the other. Though the pacing and flow of the scenes helps to hold the viewer's attention away from considering the odds of each new pitfall that occurs, it is still difficult to validate the story on a surface level when it comes down to it. This, combined with several contrivances that bail the group out of various predicaments make for a peculiar experience that feels both frustrating on a logical level and oddly relatable in terms of real-world applicability. Aside from one instance of jarring, unnecessary language and a repetitive use of crass innuendo, the overarching tone is overall enjoyable.
As for the characters, Chris was easily the highlight of film, due largely in part to the degree of maturity presented through her role and the perseverance she continued to display at each turn of the proverbial rollercoaster. Brad's overall arch was decent, alongside his sister Sarah. Both of which acted their age and were refreshing to watch, especially compared to how youth is commonly depicted in recent years. Similarly, Brenda's sporadic appearances were worth waiting for, as her colorful-yet-grounded personality leaned into both the serious aspects of the film and it's underlying humor in turn. Daryl, on the other hand, was a big question mark from start to finish, especially in terms of relevance. That is to say that he never truly contributes toward moving the plot forward, and is instead the squeaky fourth wheel whose only purpose is to insert crude humor wherever he can. As this can easily undermine enjoyability of the movie depending on personal preference, it would have likely been best if his role had been minimized to a side character.
In conclusion, "Adventures in Babysitting" has the potential for being a decent-to-good watch depending on if enough tolerance can be mustered to oppose the chaotic narrative and moderate use of innuendo. At it's core, it is a simple story with reasonable stakes that asks for little investment in exchange for a high degree of suspension of disbelief. While it is not the greatest feel-good flick around the block, it is still serviceable for providing a reasonable level of entertainment.
Concerning the plot, much of what happens after the main character, Chris, accepts a babysitting job can be best summarized as one hurdle after another; each requiring a leap of logic to clear, albeit with differing degrees. After receiving a distress call from her friend Brenda, Chris is subsequently blackmailed by the subjects of her sitting, Brad and Sarah, into taking them with her as she sets off for the city with neighboring acquaintance Daryl also in tow. One flat tire later, and the narrative slowly begins to unwind as it sends the four skipping from one tense scenario into the next; from the revenge plans of their tow driver and a den of chop shop criminals to a blues joint and a confrontation between rival gangs on a train, the fast and loose storytelling is a masterwork in plausible mayhem. This, for better or worse, sets an awkward tone in general as character interactions are generally lighthearted on one hand while the imminant death from the crime boss and his goons looms ever-present on the other. Though the pacing and flow of the scenes helps to hold the viewer's attention away from considering the odds of each new pitfall that occurs, it is still difficult to validate the story on a surface level when it comes down to it. This, combined with several contrivances that bail the group out of various predicaments make for a peculiar experience that feels both frustrating on a logical level and oddly relatable in terms of real-world applicability. Aside from one instance of jarring, unnecessary language and a repetitive use of crass innuendo, the overarching tone is overall enjoyable.
As for the characters, Chris was easily the highlight of film, due largely in part to the degree of maturity presented through her role and the perseverance she continued to display at each turn of the proverbial rollercoaster. Brad's overall arch was decent, alongside his sister Sarah. Both of which acted their age and were refreshing to watch, especially compared to how youth is commonly depicted in recent years. Similarly, Brenda's sporadic appearances were worth waiting for, as her colorful-yet-grounded personality leaned into both the serious aspects of the film and it's underlying humor in turn. Daryl, on the other hand, was a big question mark from start to finish, especially in terms of relevance. That is to say that he never truly contributes toward moving the plot forward, and is instead the squeaky fourth wheel whose only purpose is to insert crude humor wherever he can. As this can easily undermine enjoyability of the movie depending on personal preference, it would have likely been best if his role had been minimized to a side character.
In conclusion, "Adventures in Babysitting" has the potential for being a decent-to-good watch depending on if enough tolerance can be mustered to oppose the chaotic narrative and moderate use of innuendo. At it's core, it is a simple story with reasonable stakes that asks for little investment in exchange for a high degree of suspension of disbelief. While it is not the greatest feel-good flick around the block, it is still serviceable for providing a reasonable level of entertainment.