Adventures in Babysitting

Adventures in Babysitting is a 1987 comedy film directed by Chris Columbus that takes viewers on a wild and hilarious journey through the streets of Chicago. The story centers around Chris Parker, a responsible and ambitious high school senior who finds herself thrust into an unexpected adventure when she agrees to babysit for a family friend. Little does she know that this seemingly routine babysitting job will quickly spiral into an unforgettable night of mishaps, mayhem, and unexpected encounters.

When Chris’s best friend unexpectedly calls her in distress from a bus station downtown, begging for help, Chris decides to bring along the kids she’s babysitting—Brad, a preteen with a crush on Chris, and his adventurous little sister, Sara. What follows is a series of misadventures as the group encounters car thieves, gets stranded in a dangerous neighborhood, and becomes entangled with a chop shop.

Throughout their escapades, Chris and the kids find themselves navigating through a series of comical and sometimes dangerous situations. From a blues club showdown to a memorable encounter with a mechanic named “Handsome John,” their night becomes an unforgettable rollercoaster ride of chaos and hilarity.

As the night progresses, Chris and the kids learn important lessons about bravery, loyalty, and the importance of sticking together. Through their experiences, they discover hidden strengths and unexpected bonds that will shape their futures.

Adventures in Babysitting is a comedic and heartwarming film that combines elements of adventure, friendship, and coming-of-age. It showcases the enduring power of courage and the strength that can be found in the most unexpected places. With its memorable characters, humorous dialogue, and thrilling escapades, the movie has become a beloved classic, capturing the spirit of youthful adventure and the bonds that form in the most unlikely circumstances.

Fun Facts

• The film was originally titled “A Night on the Town” but was changed to “Adventures in Babysitting” to better reflect the movie’s premise.
• Elizabeth Shue stars as the lead character, Chris Parker, in her first major film role. The success of the movie helped launch her career.
• The film is known for its humorous and adventurous plot, which includes encounters with car thieves, a chop shop, and a blues club.
• The character of Thor, a young boy obsessed with the superhero, is played by Vincent D’Onofrio in one of his earliest film roles.
• The famous “Don’t f*** with the babysitter” line is often associated with the movie. It has become a popular quote among fans of the film.
• The blues club scene in the film features a memorable performance by blues singer Albert Collins, who performs his song “Babysitting Blues.”
• “Adventures in Babysitting” was a modest success at the box office, grossing over $34 million worldwide.
• The film received positive reviews from critics, who praised its humor, energetic performances, and entertaining storyline.
• “Adventures in Babysitting” has become a cult classic and is often considered one of the quintessential ’80s teen comedy films. Its blend of comedy, adventure, and relatable characters has made it a beloved movie for many.