: Priah Ferguson’s performance is frequently cited as a highlight. The visual effects for the animated decorations are noted for being well-executed for a family film.

: Howard, a science teacher and staunch skeptic of the supernatural, must team up with Sydney to find an ancient incantation to re-trap Jack before he can take a soul to hell at midnight. Cast and Production Notable Works Howard Gordon Marlon Wayans Scary Movie , White Chicks Sydney Gordon Priah Ferguson Stranger Things (Erica Sinclair) Emily Gordon Kelly Rowland Singer (Destiny's Child) Principal Reed John Michael Higgins Pitch Perfect Mayor Tammy Lauren Lapkus The Wrong Missy Sulley Rob Riggle 21 Jump Street Madam Esmeralda Nia Vardalos My Big Fat Greek Wedding Source: IMDb , Wikipedia Critical Reception

Critics and audiences generally view the film as a lighthearted "gateway horror" suitable for families with older children, often comparing its tone to the Goosebumps series or Hubie Halloween .

: While exploring their new house, Sydney finds an old lantern and inadvertently releases the spirit of Stingy Jack , a legendary figure who seeks revenge on the town.

The story centers on the Gordon family—Howard (Marlon Wayans), Emily (Kelly Rowland), and their teenage daughter Sydney (Priah Ferguson)—who move from Brooklyn to the Halloween-obsessed town of Bridge Hollow.

: It is rated TV-14 . While it lacks gore, it features scary imagery and mild language that may be intense for very young children.