Don’t Tell Mom the Babysitter’s Dead (2024) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
The 2024 remake of Don’t Tell Mom the Babysitter’s Dead brings a fresh, hilarious, and socially aware twist to the beloved 1991 original. Set in Southern California, this reboot centers on a Black family dealing with the unexpected death of their racist babysitter, all while navigating the complexities of adulthood, responsibility, and familial ties. Directed by Wade Allain-Marcus and written by Chuck Hayward, the film does justice to its predecessor while offering a modern take on the coming-of-age genre.
Plot Summary
In this reimagined version, the focus shifts to 17-year-old Tanya Crandell (Simone Joy Jones), who has her summer plans to travel to Spain thwarted when her mother, played by Patricia “Ms. Pat” Williams, suffers a mental breakdown and takes off for a yoga retreat in Thailand. Left in charge of her younger siblings—burnout Kenny (Donielle T. Hansley Jr.), goth Melissa (Ayaamii Sledge), and naive Zack (Carter Young)—Tanya’s summer quickly spirals out of control when their overbearing, racist babysitter, Ms. Sturak (June Squibb), dies unexpectedly.
Rather than alerting their mother and ruining her much-needed break, Tanya and her siblings decide to handle things themselves. With no adult supervision, and quickly running out of money, Tanya takes on a job at a fashion company, pretending to be an adult. Here, the film blends family drama with comedic workplace antics as Tanya struggles to balance the challenges of her personal life with her newfound professional responsibilities.
A Modern Twist on a Classic
While the 1991 version of Don’t Tell Mom the Babysitter’s Dead was a light-hearted romp that capitalized on the charm of Christina Applegate, the 2024 version dives deeper into the themes of responsibility, race, and growing up faster than expected. The film remains faithful to the original’s core premise but retools it for a modern audience, particularly with its diverse cast and cultural references that resonate with today’s social climate.
Director Wade Allain-Marcus keeps the humor sharp while addressing sensitive issues like racial identity, privilege, and fast fashion. Tanya, played brilliantly by Simone Joy Jones, is a strong female lead, navigating not just sibling chaos but also the challenges of being a Black woman in a predominantly white corporate space. The film makes clever social commentary without losing its comedic edge, offering timely reflections on societal pressures and economic realities faced by younger generations.
Stellar Cast and Performances
The standout performance in the movie comes from Simone Joy Jones as Tanya. Her portrayal of a teenager forced to grow up too quickly is both heartfelt and comedic. Jones is able to convey Tanya’s vulnerability, awkwardness, and determination with a natural ease that makes her instantly likable. Her chemistry with Donielle T. Hansley Jr., who plays her rebellious brother Kenny, is one of the highlights of the film.
Nicole Richie, as Tanya’s boss Rose, brings her own flair to the film with her portrayal of a quirky, out-of-touch fashion executive. Richie’s character is a direct nod to the original film’s character, Rose, but with a more modern and comical spin. Although some critics have argued that her performance lacks the frosty authority expected from such a role, her whimsical energy provides much-needed comedic relief.
June Squibb, as the cantankerous Ms. Sturak, delivers a short but memorable performance as the babysitter whose unexpected death sets the entire plot in motion. Squibb’s portrayal is intentionally over-the-top, and her character’s demise leads to some of the movie’s darkest but funniest moments.
Where to Watch Don’t Tell Mom the Babysitter’s Dead (2024) Online
If you’re looking to watch the 2024 version of Don’t Tell Mom the Babysitter’s Dead, you’re in luck. The movie is currently available for streaming on BET+, Paramount’s streaming service that has become known for featuring diverse and innovative content.
For those looking to rent or purchase the movie online, it’s also available on platforms like Apple TV and Amazon Prime Video. These services allow you to either rent or buy the movie, giving you flexible options depending on your viewing preference.
- BET+ (Original Streaming Service)
- Apple TV (Rental/Purchase)
- Amazon Prime Video (Rental/Purchase)
Is the Remake Worth Watching?
Fans of the original 1991 film will find plenty to enjoy in the 2024 version. Nostalgic nods, like the iconic line “I’m right on top of that, Rose!”, are scattered throughout the film, and the movie even makes use of the same house as the original in Santa Clarita, California. However, the real strength of the reboot lies in how it adapts the story for a new audience, particularly in its handling of race, class, and the modern workplace.
The film’s pacing, character development, and direction are superior to the original in many respects. Though some of the jokes fall flat, the heartwarming moments and strong performances make this remake a success. The inclusion of more substantial thematic elements like toxic masculinity, food insecurity, and fast fashion adds layers to the story that weren’t present in the original, giving the film a more contemporary feel.
Conclusion
In a landscape crowded with reboots and remakes, Don’t Tell Mom the Babysitter’s Dead (2024) manages to stand out by balancing humor, social commentary, and nostalgia. It’s a fun and heartwarming family comedy with a modern twist that will appeal to both fans of the original and a new generation of viewers.
Whether you’re looking for a nostalgic trip down memory lane or a refreshing update on a classic, the 2024 version is definitely worth the watch. Head over to BET+, Apple TV, or Amazon Prime Video to stream or rent this charming, socially-conscious reboot.
