A Fresh, Authentic Take on a Cult Classic
As the highly anticipated remake of Don’t Tell Mom the Babysitter’s Dead hits digital platforms on November 19, fans of the original can expect a film that’s both hilariously nostalgic and refreshingly new. Directed by Wade Allain-Marcus (French Dirty, Insecure) and written by Chuck Hayward (Ted Lasso, WandaVision), this new iteration of the 90s classic brings a more inclusive perspective, delivering laughs and heart with a cast that’s as diverse as it is talented.
In my duo interview with Allain-Marcus and Hayward, we dove into the significance of representation in remakes like this one. Allain-Marcus emphasized how reimagined classics can be pivotal for creatives of color to step into industry spaces, a powerful opportunity to “remix material and sometimes even make it better.” For Hayward, authenticity was key. He expressed his commitment to telling a story that feels real and celebrated the younger cast members for understanding his vision and bringing it to life with magic and energy. Both filmmakers see this project as a refreshing update to the original story, blending relatable humor with moments of genuine emotion.
During my one-on-one chat with Simone Joy Jones, who takes on the iconic role of Tanya Crandell (originally played by Christina Applegate), we shared a full “kiki” over our mutual love for the fashion choices in the film. Simone not only brings a unique energy to Tanya but shared a heartfelt moment she had on set with her co-star Donielle Hansley Jr., who plays her on-screen brother Kenny. According to Simone, this was when she realized she was part of something truly special—especially in a key scene that highlighted their sibling bond.
I also sat down with Hansley, who plays Kenny, the stoner/skater brother in the Crandell family. He was thrilled to drop a few exclusive Easter eggs for the movie, giving us the inside scoop on details not yet shared with anyone else. Hansley echoed the sentiments of Hayward, stressing the importance of telling an authentic story that young audiences can see themselves in.
Set in an updated context with a fresh, young cast including Simone Joy Jones (Bel-Air, Anything’s Possible), Patricia “Ms. Pat” Williams (The Ms. Pat Show), and Jermaine Fowler (Coming 2 America), this remake celebrates both the nostalgia of the original and the vibrant energy of the present. With June Squibb, Nicole Richie, and other talented names adding multigenerational appeal, Don’t Tell Mom the Babysitter’s Dead is set to resonate with both longtime fans and new viewers.
This cult classic’s reimagining is ready to introduce a new generation to the timeless humor and spirited chaos of the Crandell family, making it an absolute must-watch. Don’t miss it on platforms like AppleTV, Amazon, GooglePlay, and more.
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