Little Evil (2017)

Little Evil is the rare horror-comedy that understands the joke isn’t just “what if the kid is Satan,” but “what if being a stepdad already feels like a supernatural trial.” Adam Scott’s everyman panic is perfectly calibrated—sweet, frazzled, and just paranoid enough to keep you laughing even as the movie sprinkles in genuinely spooky images and a few wince-inducing shocks. Director Eli Craig keeps the vibe breezy and mischievous, packing the story with clever gags and a game supporting cast that turns each escalation into a punchline you don’t see coming. If you’re allergic to profanity or prefer your horror either truly terrifying or completely tame, it may not be your flavor, but for anyone on the fence it’s an easy, charming watch with a wicked sense of fun.

Little Evil is clearly aiming for a cheeky, modern riff on The Omen, swapping dread for awkward stepdad anxiety and a steady stream of deadpan jokes. Adam Scott sells the “I’m trying my best” energy, and a few set pieces land with the right mix of creepy and absurd, but the movie often feels like it’s pulling its punches—neither scary enough to satisfy horror fans nor sharp enough to be a truly biting comedy. The plot leans on familiar beats and convenient turns, so if you’re hoping for clever mythology or real tension, it may come off lightweight and a bit repetitive. If you’re in the mood for an easy, mildly nasty, TV-MA horror-comedy with some swearing and dark gags rather than genuine chills, it’s a perfectly serviceable time.