🎯 Quick Overview
Trailer
- Director: Scott Hamm Duenas
- Genre: Drama, Horror, Mystery, Thriller
- Release year: 2021
- Runtime (length): 1h 27min
- IMDb rating: 3.6/10 (5.3K votes)
- Rotten Tomatoes: N/A
😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained
Four people with relationship problems go to a remote cabin where a creepy caretaker helps them solve their issues… with murder!
🍿 The Stay: Detailed Plot Synopsis
Weekend Getaway
Two couples, Hayden and Misha, and Chris and Nora, decide to spend a weekend at a secluded rental house in an attempt to salvage their strained relationships. The trip is intended to be a relaxing escape, but tensions quickly rise as old secrets and resentments surface. Hayden is suspicious of Misha’s behavior, while Chris and Nora struggle with their own marital issues.

Creepy Caretaker
Upon arriving at the rental house, the couples meet Bo-Lee, the odd and unsettling caretaker of the property. Bo-Lee’s strange behavior and intrusive presence add an element of unease to the already tense atmosphere. He seems to know more about the couples than he should, and his interactions with them become increasingly unnerving.

Secrets Revealed
As the weekend progresses, the couples engage in a game of ‘Truth or Dare,’ which leads to the revelation of hidden truths and betrayals. It is revealed that Misha is pregnant and unsure of the father’s identity, leading to a confrontation with Hayden. Chris and Nora’s marital problems are also exposed, highlighting the deep-seated issues within both relationships.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained
🎬 Cast & Characters
- Hayden (Scott Hamm Duenas): A husband who is dealing with trust issues and a troubled marriage, leading him to uncover dangerous secrets.
- Misha (Michele Martin): Hayden’s wife, who is involved in infidelity and secrets that threaten her relationships.
- Chris (Rob Mayes): A friend on the weekend getaway, entangled in the couples’ drama and dangerous secrets.
- Nora (Nija Okoro): A woman on the weekend getaway who gets caught up in the unfolding secrets and escalating danger.
💬 Memorable Quotes
- Hayden: “I’m gonna drink some of your beer and some of your food…” – Said during a phone conversation at his friend’s house in the opening minutes, although the phrasing is awkward.
💰Box Office
- Budget: N/A
- Domestic Gross: N/A
- Worldwide Gross: N/A
💥 The Stay Reviews
Personal Review
I watched ‘The Stay’ with low expectations, and honestly, it met them. The plot felt predictable, and the acting was a bit wooden. There were moments where I chuckled at the absurdity of it all, especially the caretaker’s over-the-top creepiness. I was definitely not on the edge of my seat, but it was a passable way to spend an evening if you’re not looking for anything too demanding. I think people who like to watch B movies will get some enjoyment out of it but for me, it just wasn’t a stand out movie.
- Who would enjoy:
- “Fans of low-budget thrillers”
- “Viewers interested in relationship dramas with suspenseful elements”
- “People who enjoy independent films with unexpected twists”
- Content warnings ⚠:
- “Infidelity”
- “Violence”
- “Strong language”
- “Mature themes”
Professional Reviews
- Nerdly: “While ‘The Overnight’ (news name) shares themes of marital tension, it lacks the sharp writing and compelling characters needed to truly resonate, ultimately making it a forgettable thriller. The acting is uneven, and the plot twists feel forced, leaving the viewer with a sense of unfulfilled potential. A weekend getaway gone wrong that never really gets going.
- IMDB User Review: “The movie is a joke with worst cinematic lighting ever seen. Hard core B-movie. This reviewer gave it a 1 to even out the rating due to suspected fake 10 and 9 star ratings, they believe that with good director and good actors, the story could’ve been interesting.
Audience Reactions
Some found the twists surprising, keeping them guessing until the end.: Viewers were split; some appreciated the suspense, while others found the acting and plot lacking.
Overall Consensus: Mixed reactions, with some finding it a passable thriller and others considering it a waste of time due to poor acting and predictable plot.
Awards
🛠️ Behind the Scenes
- “The film was shot in Agua Dulce, California, utilizing the natural, isolated setting to enhance the suspense.”
- “Actor Rob Mayes, who plays Chris in the movie, also wrote and performed the song ‘Closer’ that is featured during the opening credits.”
- “Scott Hamm Duenas not only starred in the movie but was also the writer, director and producer.”
🖥️ How to Watch The Stay?
Currently, “The Stay” is available for streaming via platforms like Tubi, Vudu and Pluto TV, which are free with ads. It is also available for rental or purchase on digital platforms like Prime Video and Apple TV. Check your local listings for availability.

🎥 Similar Movies
If you enjoyed The Stay, you might like these similar films:
- The Rental (2020): Both films feature couples on a getaway who discover they are being watched and secrets are exposed, leading to dangerous situations.
- You Should Have Left (2020): Similar to ‘The Stay’, it explores the themes of troubled relationships, isolation, and hidden secrets revealed during a vacation gone wrong.
🛒 The Stay Related Products
- Cabin Getaway: A Thriller Board Game: Experience the tension of a secluded retreat with this suspenseful board game. Players must uncover secrets and survive the night, inspired by the movie’s plot.
- Remote Cabin Ambiance Soundscape: Immerse yourself in the sounds of nature with this digital soundscape. Featuring ambient noises from a remote cabin, it’s perfect for creating a spooky or relaxing atmosphere.
- The Stay: Limited Edition Movie Poster: Own a piece of the movie with this limited-edition poster. Printed on high-quality paper, it’s a must-have for collectors and fans of the film.
- Cabin Fever Survival Kit: A curated collection of items inspired by the movie’s isolated setting, including a survival knife replica, first aid supplies, and a map of the filming location.
🎧 Soundtrack
The Stay features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:
You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.
🤨 FAQ
“The Stay” is a drama thriller about two couples who rent a secluded house for a weekend getaway, only to encounter a strange caretaker and uncover dangerous secrets that threaten their relationships.
“The Stay” was primarily filmed in Agua Dulce, California.
Scott Hamm Duenas wrote and directed “The Stay”. He also stars in the film as the character Hayden.
🔥 Bonus Content
She’s a stay at home mom… #movie #fyp
Check out this short clip from tt11591424, it’s a quick snapshot that perfectly captures a key character dynamic. I think it’s pretty cool how they managed to convey so much in just one minute.
Why don’t you stay down, boy?#movie #themagnificentseven #shorts
This intense one-minute clip really gets to the heart of the film’s central conflict. You’ve got to see this iconic scene – it’s such a power move!
200+ IQ Chef Cooks Fish Without Killing It
This is a detailed recap of the movie, it dives deep into the plot and character development. It’s definitely worth watching to better understand the story!
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