“The Nest” (2020) is a psychological drama directed by Sean Durkin, known for his film Martha Marcy May Marlene. Starring Jude Law and Carrie Coon, the film explores themes of family, ambition, and the crumbling nature of relationships, set against the backdrop of 1980s England.

Plot Overview:

The story centers on Rory O’Hara (Jude Law), an ambitious and somewhat manipulative businessman, and his American wife, Allison (Carrie Coon), who has a more grounded, pragmatic approach to life. When Rory persuades his family to leave their comfortable life in the U.S. and move to an isolated mansion in the English countryside, he hopes to make it big in London’s financial world. However, as they settle into their new life, cracks begin to appear in their marriage, their family dynamic, and Rory’s grandiose dreams.

Highlights:

1. Acting Performances:
   • Jude Law gives a compelling portrayal of Rory, a man whose relentless pursuit of wealth and status masks his deeper insecurities and desperation. His character is charismatic but flawed, making him both captivating and frustrating to watch.
   • Carrie Coon delivers an equally strong performance as Allison. Her character’s emotional journey, from supportive wife to someone who questions the choices they’ve made, is portrayed with nuance and depth. Coon’s performance adds layers to the film, balancing Rory’s reckless ambition with her quiet strength.
2. Atmosphere and Tone: The film is drenched in a sense of growing unease. The setting—a large, cold, and increasingly isolated mansion—mirrors the emotional distance growing between Rory and Allison. The house becomes almost a character in itself, symbolizing the emptiness of their material pursuits. The chilly tone of the film underscores the tension and slow disintegration of the family unit.
3. Themes:
   • The film explores themes of ambition, deception, and the pursuit of the “good life.” Rory’s obsession with success leads him to overextend, both financially and emotionally, putting enormous strain on his family. This theme feels particularly resonant in the context of the 1980s, an era known for excess and financial greed.
   • At its core, The Nest is about the breakdown of a family under the weight of unmet expectations and false facades. The emotional struggles of the characters feel real and relatable, even if the circumstances they find themselves in are unique.
4. Pacing and Tension: The pacing of The Nest is deliberate, and the film takes its time building tension. It’s not a thriller in the conventional sense but more of a slow-burn drama that gradually unravels the characters’ emotions. Some viewers may find the pacing slow, but the mounting tension works well for the story Durkin is telling.

Criticisms:

• Slow Pacing: As mentioned, the film is methodical in its pacing, which may not appeal to everyone. Some may find the movie too slow or uneventful, as it focuses more on mood and character than on plot-driven action.
• Character Likability: Both Rory and Allison are flawed characters, and their choices can be frustrating to watch. This might make it difficult for some viewers to sympathize with them, though others may appreciate the complexity of their flaws.

Verdict:

“The Nest” is a well-crafted, slow-burn drama that delves into the emotional and psychological fallout of unchecked ambition and the pursuit of status. Jude Law and Carrie Coon deliver excellent performances that anchor the film, while the atmospheric setting and themes of familial disintegration create a haunting narrative. While its deliberate pacing and focus on character may not be for everyone, the film will appeal to those who appreciate introspective, character-driven stories with a psychological edge.