IndieWire After Dark is set to air feature-length films that focus on fringe cinema every Friday night. During December 2024, the program will celebrate the end of the year with a range of quirky holiday TV specials and midnight movies.
Among the selections, viewers are encouraged to check out the film “BAIT,” noted for its unique and eclectic mix from various eras of cinema. Another recommendation is “BITE,” which contains spoilers and exciting plot twists.
The period between Christmas and New Year’s tends to be quiet, but holiday horror films present a thrilling alternative. One standout is “Better Watch Out,” directed by Chris Peckover. This 2016 movie features a masked killer and revolves around 17-year-old Ashley and 12-year-old Luke, who find themselves in a terrifying situation after a home invasion. The film juxtaposes the holiday season with a chilling narrative, providing a refreshing and unsettling twist to the typical festive atmosphere.
With unpredictable tensions and a mix of teenage drama and horror, this film offers a unique blend that contrasts sharply with the traditional incoming new year celebrations.”Better Watch Out,” also known as “Safe Neighborhood,” is a 2016 horror film that blends unsettling scenes with elements of dark comedy. The plot revolves around a babysitter, Ashley, played by Olivia DeJonge, who finds herself in a life-threatening situation when a mysterious attacker targets her and the children she is watching. The film features notable performances, including Patrick Warburton and Virginia Madsen, who play Luke’s parents, bringing a strange intensity to their roles.
The screenplay, co-written by the director and Zac Khan, presents a mix of horror and holiday themes, creating an odd yet captivating viewing experience. The film’s visuals are described as both bold and disordered, which contributes to its unsettling aura. Despite this, the film has gained a following among horror enthusiasts who appreciate its unique take on the genre, especially during the holiday season.
“Better Watch Out” serves as a commentary on the exaggeration present in modern horror films. With its blend of pop culture references and exploitative themes, it recalls the over-the-top style seen in films like “Grindhouse.” The film’s absurd yet disturbing elements may challenge viewers, prompting them to reflect on their preferences in horror cinema.
Currently, “Better Watch Out” is available for streaming on platforms like Tubi and Peacock, making it accessible to fans of the genre looking for a different take on holiday horror.”Better Watch Out,” previously known as “Safe Neighborhoods,” offers a fresh take on the classic home invasion narrative, drawing comparisons to “Home Alone.” However, while it echoes some familiar themes, the film takes a darker approach, highlighting the real consequences of violence in a way that challenges viewers to reconsider the lighthearted antics of its predecessor. Unlike the comical traps set by Kevin McAllister, the violence in “Better Watch Out” is depicted with unsettling realism, causing viewers to reflect on the severity of the actions portrayed.
Critics have pointed out that the film is often categorized as a horror comedy, blending satirical elements with portrayals of gun violence that some find troubling. The film oscillates between moments of levity and intense, sometimes disturbing imagery, as it seeks to balance humor and horror. This tonal inconsistency poses challenges in understanding its intended audience, with scenes ranging from innocent preteen discussions to graphic displays of violence.
Despite its flaws, “Better Watch Out” operates as a darkly humorous commentary on themes relevant in today’s society, particularly issues of incel culture and the impact of media on young minds. While it certainly diverges from the family-friendly spirit of “Home Alone,” it offers a unique and provocative viewing experience that may not be easily forgotten after one watch.
The film stands as a critique and companion piece to its holiday classic counterpart, presenting a narrative that horror fans may find engaging despite its darker edge. It invites viewers to reconsider the implications of both films and the different lenses through which they can be interpreted in contemporary culture.