Disney recently released a bunch of movies on Blu-ray for the first time, and Christopher Columbus‘ Adventures in Babysitting was one of them. I did not see this film in theaters, but remember HBO having this on heavy rotation when I was younger. This film has a perfect mix of comedy and action, and is a fun film to watch with the whole family.
Adventures in Babysitting stars Elisabeth Shue, Keith Coogan, Maia Brewton, Vincent D’Onofrio, Penelope Ann Miller, Bradley Whitford, Anthony Rapp, and George Newbern. The story follows Chris Parker (Shue), who agrees to babysit after her boyfriend stands her up. Soon after her employers leave for the night, Chris’ friend Brenda (Miller) calls and pleads to be rescued from the bus station in downtown Chicago. What starts out as a boring evening babysitting, soon turns into a wild adventure they all won’t forget.
Even though I had watched this film many times over the years, this is the first time I actually sat down and paid attention to the film. Past viewings have consisted of the film just playing in the background. This is actually a testament to the quality of the film. Adventures in Babysitting is one of those movies you can start watching at just about any point whenever it is on TV.
As a result of paying attention this time, I was rewarded with realizing the great supporting cast. Until now, I had thought Anthony Rapp got his start in Dazed and Confused. I had no idea he played the obnoxiously funny sidekick Daryl. Whitford may have been a relatively good guy in The West Wing, but is a huge douche in this film as Chris’ boyfriend. George Newbern went on to continue his good guy charm in the Father of the Bride movies. Keith Coogan has had some iconic roles over the years in such films as Don’t Tell Mom The Babysitters Dead, Toy Soldiers, and Hiding Out. I loved D’Onofrio’s character in the film, he truly looked like the classic Thor character.
For a 25th Anniversary Blu-ray release the special features are horrible for this disc. I really was hoping for a commentary, a making of or other features on other comparable “Anniversary” discs. The movie does look and sound better than I remember seeing it when I have watched on HBO or VHS.
