Babysitter Killer Queen: Not so Killer

As a fan of the original The Babysitter, I entered the sequel, The Babysitter: Killer Queen, with high hopes and a nostalgic sense of excitement. The first film was a delightful mix of horror, humor, and charming absurdity, led by the magnetic performance of Samara Weaving as Bee. Unfortunately, the sequel falls flat, losing much of the charm that made its predecessor so enjoyable, while also suffering from glaring plot holes and a notable lack of its former star.

The first installment was brimming with quirky, gimmicky scenes and a playful energy that kept viewers engaged, even those who might not typically find themselves drawn to a movie centered around a young boy. Cole's journey was infused with humor and wit, making it a fun watch. However, Killer Queen attempts to recreate that charm but ends up feeling forced and one-dimensional. The fight scene between the two love interests felt particularly uninspired, and Phoebe’s introduction came across as overly contrived, drawing more cringe than connection. Overall, the sequel lacks the unique spark that made the first film feel special and memorable.

One of the film’s major flaws lies in its shaky premise. The narrative hinges on the idea that no one believes Cole’s wild story about the first film’s events, conveniently ignoring the fact that Bee's sudden disappearance and the vanishing of four teenagers and two police officers would raise significant red flags. This glaring oversight requires a suspension of disbelief that quickly leads to frustration.

Additionally, Mel's transformation into a villain feels nonsensical. While the film tries to paint her as a character motivated by a desire for social media fame, the execution is lackluster and lacks depth. The supposed dramatic twist of her joining the cult doesn’t land, and the convoluted explanation that Bee orchestrated Mel’s downfall to protect Cole and Phoebe raises more questions than it answers. This lack of coherent storytelling ultimately undermines the film's credibility.

Arguably, the most disappointing aspect of Killer Queen is the underutilization of Samara Weaving. In the first film, her portrayal of Bee was a standout, characterized by confidence, charisma, and a compelling blend of menace and charm. However, in the sequel, Weaving’s presence is reduced to a fleeting shadow of her former self, with her character appearing only in the last fifteen minutes. When she does return, Bee feels stripped of her original vibrancy and complexity, making it difficult to invest in her character. The twist that Bee was once Mel's babysitter could have added layers to the story, but instead, it feels like a missed opportunity for character development.

In conclusion, The Babysitter: Killer Queen struggles to recapture the magic of the original. While it attempts to be a playful horror-comedy, it ultimately falls short due to its lack of charm, glaring plot holes, and the disappointing sidelining of its most compelling character. Fans of the first film might want to think twice before diving into this sequel, as it risks tarnishing the integrity of the original’s legacy. If you’re hoping for a continuation that builds upon what made the first film great, this sequel may leave you feeling underwhelmed. A C+ feels generous, and it’s a cautionary tale for those eager to revisit the world of Cole and his babysitter gone wrong.