The Boy (2016)
A nanny discovers a chilling secret in an old English manor where a doll dictates the rules.
A young American woman takes a job as a nanny in a remote English village, soon discovering that the family's eight-year-old son is a life-sized doll that comes with a list of strict rules.
How intense is The Boy?
The Boy is properly scary, with light gore and some violence. Emotionally it is heavy. The pace is measured, and it is a full-attention watch and a late-night trip. Rated PG-13.
What The Boy feels like
- Tone
- suspensefulchillingatmosphericgritty
- Pace
- Measured
- Best for
- Full attentionLate night
Where to stream The Boy
Not on a US subscription service at our last check. Rent or buy may still be an option.
US availability via TMDB, last checked Sep 14, 2026. The app filters picks to the services you actually have.
Is The Boy for you?
Is The Boy scary?
Yes, properly. The Boy is scare level 2 of 3, the real thing without being an endurance test.
Is The Boy gory or violent?
Light gore (1 of 3) and some violence (1 of 3).
Is The Boy sad or heavy?
It is emotionally heavy (2 of 3). Expect it to land.
Is The Boy OK for kids?
It is rated PG-13. Intensity: scare 2, gore 1, violence 1, each out of 3. Your call for older kids.
How long is The Boy?
The Boy runs 1h 38m.
Where can I stream The Boy?
The Boy is not on a US subscription service right now (rent or buy may still be an option).
Does The Boy have a happy ending? spoiler-safe answer
There is a twist, and that is all we are saying.
Cast and crew
More like The Boy
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I See You (2019)Properly scary · light gore · strong violence · emotionally heavyA detective's missing persons case unearths chilling secrets as a family's hidden past unravels.
The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It (2021)Properly scary · light gore · strong violence · emotionally heavyParanormal investigators confront a chilling murder defense rooted in demonic possession, pushing them into uncharted, gritty territory.
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The Sixth Sense (1999)Properly scary · emotionally heavy · measuredA child psychologist uncovers a boy's chilling secret, weaving a measured tale of suspense and melancholy.
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