Night of the Reaper (2025) Spoiler Free Review

Night of the Reaper is a 2025 horror movie directed by Brandon Christensen and written by Brandon and Ryan Christensen. Starring Jessica Clement the film follows College Student Deena (Clement) returns home for the weekend, in the wake of the brutal murder of a teenaged babysitter, and is roped into a babysitting gig of her own. When the local sheriff is mailed a piece of evidence that proves the murder may not have been an isolated incident, he is led on a scavenger hunt to reveal the killer may be planning a sequel. The film is set to premiere on Shudder on September 19, 2025.

College student Deena visits home and is roped into babysitting. The local sheriff is mailed a piece of evidence and is led on a scavenger hunt to reveal the killer of another babysitter.

Film synopsis

The cast includes Jessica Clement as Deena, Ryan Robbins as Sheriff Rod, Summer H. Howell as Emily, Matty Finochio as Butch, Ben Cockell as Chad, Max Christensen as Max Arnold, Bryn Samuel as Willis, Savannah Miller as Haddie, Susan Serrao as Sheila, Huxley Fisher as Mark, Drake Seipert as Connor, Isla Spencer as Marina, Blair Young as Dr. Hall, and David Feehan.

Shudder’s latest original, Night of the Reaper, arrives just in time for spooky season and it’s the kind of horror movie that thrives best when watched with friends on a Halloween movie night. It doesn’t reinvent the slasher wheel, but it leans into its retro 80s babysitter killer setup with enough charm and fun to keep things entertaining. For viewers who scare easily, it’s the perfect pick.

What makes the film stand out is the way it avoids becoming just another basic homage to 80s slashers. The story builds toward a plot twist that gives it fresh energy, keeping it from feeling predictable or generic. It’s the kind of surprise that makes you appreciate the film more than you expect to going in.

Another positive is that this feels like a step up from director Brandon Christensen’s previous film, The Puppetman (2023). There’s more confidence in both storytelling and execution here, making for a smoother, more enjoyable watch. While it’s not a groundbreaking entry in the genre, Night of the Reaper works as a seasonal treat: light, spooky fun that’s perfect for Halloween movie marathons or a casual horror night with friends.