10 Horror Movie Victims Who Were Actually The Villain
6. Luke Lerner - Better Watch Out (2016)
2016's Better Watch Out is truly a marketing masterclass.
When the film was released trailers and TV spots showed scenes that looked like tired slasher movie cliches. A babysitter and her charge hide as feet stalk the floor... we'd seen it a million times. The only difference was apparently the Christmas-y setting.
The film we actually got is so far removed from those teasers it is truly astounding. Better Watch Out is no tired slasher film, it is a hilarious black comedy and an artful commentary on sociopathic tendencies.
Pulling the rug from us several times, the film reveals 12 year-old Luke as a ruthless, uncaring brat, determined to get busy with his attractive babysitter before she leaves for college. When scaring her with a home invasion prank doesn't work, he takes her hostage and nonchalantly kills anyone that threatens his plan.
The talent on display by young Levi Miller is beyond impressive. He successfully navigates the arc of awkward pre-teen to frightened victim to evil mastermind. And what's more, he does it hilariously, revelling in making his captives hurt and suffer embarrassment.
Most of the film plays out like an R-rated Home Alone, as we watch Luke misbehave whilst his parents are out. Miller's smug, unbothered characterization makes us long for Olivia DeJorge's captive Ashley to break free and show this villainous little dweeb a thing or two.