The Boy Next Door,released on Jan. 23, 2015, is a suspenseful thriller that explores the dangerous allure of forbidden desire. Jennifer Lopez delivers a captivating performance as Claire Peterson, a recently separated high school teacher who finds herself drawn to the charming Noah (Ryan Guzman), the handsome and mysterious young man who moves in next door.
Claire is separated from her husband because he was cheating on her with his secretary while 19 year-old Noah has moved in next door to help his ailing elderly uncle.
Noah befriends Claire’s son Kevin, who is often bullied at school, and quotes Homer around Claire upon learning that she teaches English at the nearby high school.
The film effectively builds suspense, creating a sense of unease and dread as Claire’s innocent flirtation spirals into a dangerous obsession. Guzman delivers a chilling performance as the increasingly possessive and obsessive Noah.
While some may find the plot predictable or overly sensationalized, The Boy Next Door is undeniably entertaining. It’s a film that will keep you on the edge of your seat and leave you questioning the nature of desire and the dangers of unchecked passion.
Jennifer Lopez and Ryan Guzman in The Boy Next Door (Photo/Universal Pictures)
Reception for The Boy Next Door
The Boy Next Door grossed $14.9 million on its opening weekend, placing second in the domestic box office, trailing American Sniper ($64.6 million) starring Bradley Cooper and directed by Clint Eastwood and ahead of The Wedding Ringer ($11.3 million) starring Kevin Hart and Taken 3 ($7.4 million) starring Liam Neeson.
The film would gross $52.4 million in its theatrical run.
Christy Lemire gave the film one and a half out of four stars in her review, saying “If you’re going to make an R-rated version of what is essentially Lifetime movie material, as director Rob Cohen has done here, you don’t want anything resembling restraint.”
Claudia Puig gave the film two and a half out of four stars in her review, saying “The Boy Next Door is Fatal Attraction for the digital age.”
Legacy
The Boy Next Door is a thrilling and suspenseful thriller that delivers a satisfyingly chilling experience. It’s a film that’s best enjoyed for its entertainment value and the captivating performances from its leads.
