Better Watch Out Review: A Suburban Nightmare Unfolds
Better Watch Out, now streaming on Netflix, brings a chilling and unexpectedly disturbing twist to the holiday thriller genre. At first glance, this psychological thriller might seem like another typical home invasion story, but as the night progresses, it becomes something much darker and more unnerving. Directed by Chris Peckover, the film cleverly uses the suburban setting and holiday ambiance to lure viewers into a false sense of security, only to violently disrupt it with shocking turns.
The Setup: Innocent Beginnings
The film begins with Ashley (played by Olivia DeJonge), a babysitter, preparing for what seems like a typical night of watching over a young boy, Luke (Levi Miller), in a quiet suburban neighborhood. As the holiday decorations illuminate the house, we are introduced to the warmth and comfort of a familiar setting. But, as with all great thrillers, nothing is ever as it seems. When an unexpected home invasion occurs, Ashley must protect Luke from what she assumes are intruders. What follows is a slow unraveling of deception, dread, and manipulation.
The Shift: From Home Invasion to Psychological Horror
At the heart of Better Watch Out lies a complex psychological game. What begins as a typical horror film about a babysitter and an intruder evolves into a tense, disturbing narrative where nothing is quite as it seems. The film’s strength lies in its ability to build tension while keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. The invasion, initially perceived as a straightforward threat, slowly twists into something more perverse. Luke, the seemingly innocent child, begins to reveal darker layers of his personality, and Ashley’s protective instincts lead her down a path of confusion and terror.
Performance: Olivia DeJonge and Levi Miller Shine
Olivia DeJonge delivers a stellar performance as Ashley, a character whose vulnerability is layered with strength and resourcefulness as she tries to keep Luke safe. Her portrayal effectively captures the gradual shift from normalcy to terror, and her emotional range anchors the film’s escalating chaos.
On the other side, Levi Miller plays Luke, a role that requires a delicate balance of charm and menace. As the film progresses, Miller’s portrayal of Luke evolves from the innocent child to something far more sinister, with moments that will leave viewers questioning his true nature. His performance is both unsettling and captivating, adding to the psychological complexity of the story.
The Director’s Craft: Peckover’s Unique Approach
Chris Peckover masterfully plays with audience expectations in Better Watch Out, using the festive setting to amplify the contrast between comfort and horror. The film’s pacing is deliberate, gradually escalating the stakes as Ashley’s understanding of the situation becomes more distorted. The house itself, with its Christmas lights and cozy interiors, is cleverly used to disorient and unsettle. What should feel like a safe, warm environment becomes a claustrophobic prison that traps both the characters and the audience in a growing sense of fear.
The Twists: Unpredictable and Disturbing
What truly sets Better Watch Out apart from other holiday-themed thrillers is its unpredictable narrative. Just when you think you know where the story is headed, the film throws in a series of unexpected twists that redefine the entire experience. Without spoiling too much, the finale is both shocking and satisfying, leaving a lingering sense of unease long after the credits roll.
Final Thoughts: A Holiday Thriller Like No Other
Better Watch Out is an expertly crafted thriller that takes the holiday genre and turns it on its head. With strong performances from the cast, particularly Olivia DeJonge and Levi Miller, and a director who knows how to build tension, this film is a must-watch for fans of psychological horror. It’s a dark, twisted holiday story that will make you think twice about ever feeling safe in a quiet suburban home again. Perfect for those who enjoy a good holiday horror that doesn’t rely on typical slasher tropes, but instead on clever narrative and psychological suspense.