What the Kids Were Watching

"Don't Tell Mom the Babysitter's Dead": The Gen X Kids Are All Right (with Guest Star Javi Perez)

May 19, 2021 Sarah A. Ruiz and Rafael A. Ruiz Season 2 Episode 3
What the Kids Were Watching
"Don't Tell Mom the Babysitter's Dead": The Gen X Kids Are All Right (with Guest Star Javi Perez)
Show Notes

It's time to turn in your receipts for the petty cash and declare "Dishes are done, man," because the hosts (and a special guest star!) are here for the cult classic "Don't Tell Mom the Babysitter's Dead." This 1991 film may have faltered at the box office, but it found a dedicated fan base through cable and VHS rentals, encouraging a generation of Gen X kids and older Millennials to yell "I'm right on top of that, Rose!" at work.

While Raf doesn't count the movie among his favorites, two of its biggest fans remain Sarah and the podcast's first-ever guest star, Javi Perez. Together, this nostalgic trio celebrates the truly wonderful performances of Christina Applegate as Sue Ellen, Joanna Cassidy as Rose, and Keith Coogan as Kenny. The group also discusses the delightful 90s fashion and music choices the film makes.

However, it's not all about Rose-colored glasses. Upon revisiting the movie, the hosts find plenty of examples of toxic behavior. Is Bryan a good boyfriend, or the worst kind of nice guy? Is the Crandell mom too passive-aggressive? Would the fashion show outfits really work as school uniforms? Let's pour a big bowl of Cap'n Crunch cereal and find out.