The Hand That Rocks the Cradle

Trust no one when the danger is lurking within.

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Synopsis

"The Hand That Rocks the Cradle" (2025) stars Maika Monroe in a suspenseful psychological thriller that explores the dark underbelly of trust and deception within family life. When a seemingly perfect nanny joins a household, the family's sense of security quickly unravels as disturbing secrets and manipulations come to light. The film delves into themes of betrayal, control, and the fragility of domestic bliss, creating an atmosphere charged with tension and unease. Monroe delivers a compelling performance, bringing nuance and intensity to a role that keeps audiences guessing until the very end.

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Reviews

The 2025 release of "The Hand That Rocks the Cradle" received mixed reviews from critics and audiences. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a 45% rating, indicating a divided response. Some critics praised Maika Monroe's chilling portrayal and the film's ability to build suspense through a slow-burn narrative. For instance, a review from The Hollywood Reporter highlighted Monroe's "captivating presence," noting her "skillful embodiment of a character who blurs the line between victim and villain." However, other reviews criticized the film for relying too heavily on genre clichés and a predictable plot. Metacritic scores average around the mid-40s, reflective of many reviewers who felt the movie "missed opportunities to fully exploit its psychological thriller potential," according to Variety. IMDb user ratings present a slightly more favorable view, with many acknowledging the film's eerie atmosphere and strong performances despite some narrative shortcomings. Overall, "The Hand That Rocks the Cradle" garnered attention for its atmospheric tension and lead performance but was noted for uneven pacing and familiar tropes.