Review: Once again, ‘Don’t Tell Mom the Babysitter’s Dead,’ but the remake still has vital signs
LA TimesThe hazards of remaking a beloved film are well known. While the 1991 comedy “Don’t Tell Mom the Babysitter’s Dead,” starring Christina Applegate, didn’t exactly thrill critics 33 years ago, it’s become a cult classic, especially for elder millennials who grew up on the movie. June Squibb in the movie “Don’t Tell Mom the Babysitter’s Dead.” Much of the appeal of the original film came from Applegate in her first major film role, playing eldest sister Sue Ellen. The script by Hayward isn’t exactly breaking new ground, but it establishes the Crandells as unique and distinctive characters, including smart and weird little bro Zack and morbid gamer tween Melissa. “Don’t Tell Mom the Babysitter’s Dead” is surprisingly authentic and fun for remake material, which is naturally formulaic.