Spoonful of Sugar (2022)
A disturbed babysitter experiences a sexual awakening while using LSD to treat a seemingly sick child from a family with dark secrets.
Fan Review: Nestled within Shudder’s catalog of low-budget horror lies a slow-burn tale that prioritizes character development over immediate scares. This isn’t a horror-action spectacle, but rather a deliberate exploration of a family under immense pressure.
At its core, the film centers on a young couple grappling with the profound challenges of raising their severely autistic son, Johnny (Danillo Crovetti). His violent tantrums and difficulty with containment cast a heavy shadow over their lives, visibly and emotionally numbing their relationship.
Following the departure of their previous nanny, they hire Millicent (Morgan Taylor) without the usual precautions. Millicent herself is a complex individual, burdened by her own psychological struggles. She convincingly embodies someone with a history of abuse and a life spent navigating the foster care system.
An unexpected connection forms when Millicent meets Johnny. For the first time, Millicent experiences a sense of belonging, while Johnny finds a rare feeling of safety. Emboldened by this newfound sense of well-being, Millicent makes the ill-advised decision to discontinue her prescribed LSD drops and begins secretly administering them to Johnny through his food and medication. The potential for disaster looms large.
While the film may lack pulse-pounding excitement, it compensates with a compelling narrative, skillful direction, and strong performances. The script is well-crafted, though those who prefer a faster pace may find its deliberate unfolding less appealing.