The Good Son (1993) is a psychological thriller directed by Joseph Ruben, starring Macaulay Culkin, Elijah Wood, and Wendy Crewson. The film tells the story of a young boy, Mark Evans (Elijah Wood), who is sent to stay with his aunt and uncle after the sudden death of his mother. While living with them, Mark forms a bond with his cousin Henry (Macaulay Culkin), a seemingly charming and polite boy. However, as Mark spends more time with Henry, he begins to realize that there is something deeply disturbing about his cousinโs behavior.
Henry initially appears to be the perfect child, excelling in school and charming the adults around him. However, as the film progresses, it becomes clear that Henry harbors dark, violent tendencies. He has a history of causing harm to animals and even endangers the lives of those around him. Mark soon finds himself in a dangerous situation as he uncovers the full extent of Henryโs malevolent actions.
The central tension of the film revolves around Mark’s growing realization of Henryโs true nature, and the psychological torment he faces as he tries to convince others of the danger Henry poses. As Henryโs behavior becomes more erratic and dangerous, Mark is forced to make difficult decisions in order to protect himself and those he cares about.
The Good Son is known for its chilling atmosphere, with the film’s psychological suspense building as Markโs suspicions about Henry intensify. The performances by Culkin and Wood are central to the filmโs success. Culkin, known for his role in Home Alone (1990), delivers a strikingly sinister performance as Henry, effectively subverting his innocent public image. Elijah Wood, in one of his early roles, portrays Mark with a sense of vulnerability and determination, making his characterโs internal struggle both believable and compelling.
The film explores themes of innocence versus evil, the power of family ties, and the moral complexities of dealing with a truly dangerous individual. The Good Son is often remembered for its dark subject matter and unsettling atmosphere, leaving a lasting impression as a psychological thriller that focuses on the terror of a seemingly perfect child with a hidden, violent side. While it was met with mixed critical reviews, the performances and the film’s exploration of moral ambiguity have made it a memorable entry in the thriller genre.