The Stepfather (1987) Review in 2025
A psychological thriller about a man who marries a widow and her son, but things take a dark turn.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Not recommended for young children due to mature themes and violence.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is worth watching for fans of psychological thrillers and suspenseful storytelling. However, it may not be suitable for young children due to mature themes and violence.
Spoiler Alert!
Hover to reveal spoiler summary
The movie follows Jerry Lambert, a charming and manipulative man who marries a widow, Susan, and her son, Michael. However, Jerry's true intentions are revealed when he starts to exert control over the family, leading to a series of terrifying events.
Review Details
story8.00/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a unique twist that keeps the viewer guessing.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, with Terry O'Quinn delivering a standout performance as the sinister Jerry.
characters8.50/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with Jerry being a particularly memorable and chilling villain.
direction8.00/10
The direction is solid, with effective use of tension and suspense to keep the viewer on the edge of their seat.
cinematography7.00/10
The cinematography is decent, but not particularly noteworthy.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The movie's unique twist, well-developed characters, and standout performances make it a compelling watch.
Cons
The cinematography is somewhat lacking, and the pacing could be improved in some areas.
Notable Quotes
"I'm not a monster, I'm a father."
"You're a very special boy, Michael."
