A suburban family chooses seemingly sweet Peyton Flanders as their newborn's nanny. Only much later does the infant's mother, Claire Bartel, realize Peyton's true intentions -- to destroy Claire and replace her in the family. The nail-biting suspense builds quickly in this chilling psychological thriller about deception and bitter revenge.
Acting
De Mornay's ice-beneath-honey performance is career-best terrifying
Direction
Hanson turns breast pumps into objects of genuine dread
Writing
Every kindness Peyton offers reeks of calculation on rewatch
Director
Curtis Hanson
Annabella Sciorra
Claire Bartel
Rebecca De Mornay
Mrs. Mott / Peyton Flanders
Matt McCoy
Michael Bartel
Ernie Hudson
Solomon
Madeline Zima
Emma Bartel
Julianne Moore
Marlene Craven
John de Lancie
Dr. Victor Mott
Mitchell Laurance
Lawyer
Brian T. Finney
Botanical Gardens Worker
Julie Clemmons
Female Lab Worker
Charles Lucia
Realtor (as Chip Lucia)
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Part of 1992's 'evil nanny' wave with 'The Guardian' and 'Single White Female,' reflecting anxiety about working mothers and female labor in the home.
Julianne Moore's Marlene was originally smaller; her scene-stealing performance led to expanded role and her first real mainstream break.
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