The Nest
Performance & Direction: The Nest Review
Last updated: February 24, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is The Nest (1988) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 5.2/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Thriller.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Thriller is often anchored by its ensemble, and The Nest features a noteworthy lineup led by Robert Lansing . Supported by the likes of Lisa Langlois and Franc Luz , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
Story & Plot Summary: The Nest
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1988, The Nest is a Thriller, Science Fiction, Horror film directed by Terence H. Winkless. The narrative builds tension through unpredictable twists and keeps audiences guessing until the final reveal. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Robert Lansing.
Ending Explained: The Nest
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Terence H. Winkless, The Nest attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to thriller resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes involving Robert Lansing, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the thriller themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of The Nest reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch The Nest?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Thriller films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Top Cast: The Nest
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch The Nest Online?
Streaming HubThe Nest Parents Guide & Age Rating
1988 AdvisoryWondering about The Nest age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of The Nest is 89 minutes (1h 29m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 5.2/10, and global performance metrics, The Nest is classified as a AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 1988 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Nest worth watching?
The Nest is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Thriller movies. It has a verified rating of 5.2/10 and stands as a AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find The Nest parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for The Nest identifies it as R. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of The Nest?
The total duration of The Nest is 89 minutes, which is approximately 1h 29m long.
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Critic Reviews for The Nest
_**The basic “Jaws” plot, but with a different threat**_ Some kind of carnivorous creature is preying on people & animals on an island off the coast of Southern Cal. The Sheriff (Franc Luz) becomes increasingly troubled as he investigates the curious deaths while the mayor seems to be hiding something (Robert Lansing). Lisa Langlois plays the latter’s daughter visiting from the mainland. “The Nest” (1987) takes the “Jaws” plot and simply inserts another creature. "Dead & Buried" (1981) did the same thing, but added something original. This one is routine yet still entertaining if you like these kinds of creature features. At least the filmmakers throw in something inventive in the last act in an attempt to lift the flick out of mediocrity; unfortunately it’s more cartoonish than scary and I lost interest. Langlois is winsome on the feminine front while the striking Terri Treas is effective as the possibly deranged scientist. Nancy Morgan plays a good-looking aging waitress whereas Heidi Helmer is on hand as a resident who doesn’t mind serving her mother pancakes that were dropped on the carpet. The movie runs 1 hour, 27 minutes, and was shot in the general coastal areas of Los Angeles, e.g. Santa Catalina Island (beach), Malibu (beach), Venice, Coldwater Canyon (Mayor’s mansion), Studio City (town streets) and Bronson Canyon (caves), with the lighthouse scenes done at Cape Disappointment, Washington. GRADE: C
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This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
