This movie is based on the novel The Girl Next Door by Jack Ketchum, which was loosely inspired by the real-life Sylvia Likens case from 1965.
Directed by
Gregory Wilson
Based on
The novel The Girl Next Door by Jack Ketchum, which was loosely inspired by the real-life Sylvia Likens case from 1965.
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Plot Summary
Set in a quiet 1950s American suburb, The Girl Next Door tells the haunting story of Meg Loughlin, a teenage girl sent to live with her aunt, Ruth Chandler, and her cousins after the tragic death of her parents. What begins as a temporary arrangement quickly spirals into a disturbing nightmare as Meg becomes the target of Ruth’s sadistic abuse. Ruth manipulates her sons and neighborhood kids into joining in on Meg’s prolonged torture.
The story unfolds from the perspective of David, a boy from the neighborhood, who struggles with his conscience as he witnesses the horrific events unfold in the basement of the Chandler home.
This film presents a deeply disturbing portrait of how ordinary people can be influenced into committing horrific acts under the influence of authority and peer pressure.
Main Cast
- Blythe Auffarth as Meg Loughlin
- Blanche Baker as Ruth Chandler
- Daniel Manche as David Moran
- Graham Patrick Martin as Willie Chandler Jr.
- Benjamin Ross Kaplan as Donny Chandler
- Madeline Taylor as Susan Loughlin
Bold/Controversial Scenes
The film features multiple distressing and violent scenes that depict:
- Psychological and physical abuse
- Torture sequences involving a minor character
- Disturbing themes of sadism and neglect
Genre
Psychological Horror / Drama / Crime
Runtime
Approx. 91 minutes
Language
English
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Awards & Recognition
- Blanche Baker won Best Actress at the Montréal World Film Festival for her role as Ruth Chandler.
- The film received critical attention for its intense performances and controversial subject matter, though it divided audiences due to its graphic nature.
Availability
Streaming: Available on platforms like Tubi, Amazon Prime Video (rent/purchase), and sometimes featured on Shudder (check regional availability).
DVD/Blu-ray: Widely available online.
Digital: Can be purchased or rented via platforms like Google Play, iTunes, or YouTube Movies.
Viewer Advisory:
This film contains intensely disturbing content involving the abuse of minors. It is not suitable for sensitive viewers and is recommended for a mature audience only.