Adventures in Babysitting: More 'Adventure' Than 'Sitting'!

Okay, let's talk about Adventures in Babysitting (1987). I know, not exactly highbrow cinema, but it's a nostalgic comfort watch for me. I saw it way too young, probably, and definitely thought babysitting would be way more exciting after seeing it. Spoiler alert: it's not. Anyway, the plot is simple: Chris, our responsible high schooler, ends up with the Anderson kids and it goes completely off the rails. Like, they end up in downtown Chicago, battling car thieves and getting chased by Thor-obsessed Sara. Peak '80s absurdity, right? I will say, Elizabeth Shue is fantastic. She sells the 'OMG, my life is spiraling' anxiety perfectly. I think my favourite scene is still the blues club. The whole 'Babysitting Blues' performance is so ridiculous, but it's incredibly catchy. And the line "Nobody leaves this place without singing the blues" is just iconic. Though, let's be real, the movie asks you to suspend your disbelief a lot. Like, how many dangerous situations can one group of kids get into in one night? Still, it's a fun ride. One thing that always bugged me, though, is Brad's obsession with Chris. I mean, I get it, Elizabeth Shue is gorgeous, but he's like, what, 12? It's a little... much. And Sara's Thor fixation is funny, but also slightly concerning. So yeah, while it can be problematic in places, overall, it's a lighthearted movie that brings a little bit of chaos and fun. Not exactly a cinematic masterpiece, but it's worthy of a rewatch every now and then. What do you all think? Any other '80s babysitting movies that need some love?