Stranger Next Door

"The Stranger Next Door" is a frustrating watch. At times, the characters show flashes of promise, only to revert to immature, pouty behavior that undercuts any real depth. The main character-a supposedly savvy police officer-comes across as surprisingly naive. She becomes involved with a mysterious man without so much as a background check, discovering his secrets only when it's too late.

Meanwhile, her father is inexplicably cantankerous and uncooperative toward his caretaker daughter, yet seems pleasant enough with everyone else. It's baffling that the film doesn't lean into a more engaging, supportive father-daughter dynamic-one that could have showcased genuine teamwork and emotional complexity.

The female detective fares no better. Her lack of insight leaves the audience wondering how she managed to hold her job for a full year.

These missed opportunities for nuance and development result in a narrative that feels thin and underwritten.