The Hand That Rocks the Cradle (1992) Review in 2025
A psychological thriller about a family's life turned upside down by a seemingly perfect nanny.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Not recommended for young children due to mature themes and intense scenes.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is a must-watch for fans of psychological thrillers and suspenseful dramas. It's a tense and engaging film that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
Spoiler Alert!
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The movie revolves around a family who hires a nanny, Peyton Flanders, played by Annabella Sciorra, to take care of their newborn baby. However, things take a dark turn when Peyton's true intentions are revealed, and the family is forced to confront the evil that has been hiding in plain sight.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is engaging and unpredictable, with a slow-burning tension that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The plot twists are well-executed, and the ending is both shocking and satisfying.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, with a standout performance from Annabella Sciorra as Peyton Flanders. The supporting cast is also excellent, with Rebecca De Mornay and Ernie Hudson delivering solid performances.
characters8.50/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with Peyton Flanders being a standout performance. The acting is superb, with Annabella Sciorra delivering a chilling portrayal of the villainous nanny.
direction9.00/10
Curtis Hanson's direction is masterful, with a keen eye for detail and a sense of pacing that keeps the tension building. The cinematography is also noteworthy, with a blend of dark and light tones that adds to the overall atmosphere.
cinematography8.50/10
The cinematography is excellent, with a mix of close-ups and wide shots that creates a sense of intimacy and unease. The use of lighting is also noteworthy, with a focus on shadows and dimly lit corridors that adds to the overall sense of tension.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The movie's slow-burning tension, engaging story, and superb performances make it a standout in the thriller genre. The cinematography and direction are also noteworthy, adding to the overall atmosphere of the film.
Cons
Some viewers may find the pacing a bit slow, and the ending may be too intense for younger audiences. However, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise excellent film.
Notable Quotes
"I'm not a monster, I'm a mother."
"You're just a foolish little girl, playing at being a mother."
"You're not a very good liar, are you?"
