Melissa Joan Hart Takes a Killer Turn in New Movie

Melissa Joan Hart is stepping into darker territory with “Killing the Competition,” a Lifetime thriller that trades in her usual charm for something far more unsettling. The film, which dives into the dangers of unchecked parental ambition, sees Hart take on the role of Elizabeth Fenwick, a mother who will do anything to secure her daughter’s success, no matter the cost.

A Mother’s Obsession Gone Too Far

At first glance, the character of Elizabeth Fenwick seems like any other former high school queen bee adjusting to adulthood. But beneath the surface, she’s clinging to the past, determined to make sure her daughter, Grace, lives out the dreams she never fully achieved. When Grace fails to make the competitive dance team (one that Elizabeth herself was once a star on) Elizabeth takes matters into her own hands.

And as Elizabeth’s grip tightens, Grace finds herself caught in a suffocating web of manipulation. What should be a fun, competitive experience turns into a nightmare, as her mother’s actions begin to threaten the very future Elizabeth claims to want for her. And when Elizabeth sees obstacles in Grace’s path, she doesn’t just remove them… she eliminates them entirely.

Melissa Joan Hart’s Darkest Role Yet?

For fans who grew up watching Hart in “Sabrina the Teenage Witch” or “Clarissa Explains It All,” this role is a complete departure from her usual repertoire. Gone is the lighthearted wit; this time, she’s playing a woman unraveling in real time, and she does it convincingly.

According to TV Insider, Hart acknowledged that “Killing the Competition” takes a familiar premise (an overly involved parent) and dials it up to disturbing levels. “It was really hard because it was written as a true-crime drama. However, when some people read it, they found it to be comedy,” she said. “This is one of those stories where it’s stranger than fiction. You don’t want to believe there are people like that out there, but there are a few.”

Hart also admitted that, as a mother herself, she understands how easy it can be to want the best for your children but emphasized that there’s a fine line between support and control. Her performance brings that conflict to life, making Elizabeth a character you can’t look away from; even when you want to.

Why You Should Watch

If you love psychological thrillers that explore obsession, control, and the dark side of ambition, “Killing the Competition” is a must-watch. It’s a slow burn, unraveling Elizabeth’s descent into madness in a way that’s both unsettling and gripping. The tension builds with each scene, keeping you on edge as you wonder just how far she’s willing to go.

Plus, seeing Melissa Joan Hart in a role so drastically different from her past work makes it all the more compelling. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just love a good thriller, this one is worth checking out.

“Killing the Competition” aired March 1, 2025 on the Lifetime network and can be seen online with a subscription.