Is Lisa Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Lisa is likely a skip if you enjoy Thriller movies.
It features a runtime of 95 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Lisa Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1990, Lisa emerges as a significant entry in the Thriller, Drama, Horror, Romance domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of A teenage girl becomes infatuated with a stranger who is, unbeknownst to her, a serial killer. Unlike standard genre fare, Lisa attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Thriller is often anchored by its ensemble, and Lisa features a noteworthy lineup led by Staci Keanan . Supported by the likes of Cheryl Ladd and D.W. Moffett , 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?
In summary, our editorial assessment of Lisa (1990) is mixed. With an audience rating of 5.5/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Lisa Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Lisa is a Thriller, Drama, Horror, Romance film that 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 and narrative structure.
Lisa Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Lisa attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to thriller resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes, 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 Lisa reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Lisa?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Thriller films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Lisa Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Worldwide Gross | $4.3M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Advertisement
Full Cast & Crew of Lisa
- Staci Keanan – Lisa Holland
- Cheryl Ladd – Katherine Holland
- D.W. Moffett – Richard
- Tanya Fenmore – Wendy Marks
- Jeffrey Tambor – Mr. Larry Marks
Top Highlights
Staci KeananLisa Holland
Cheryl LaddKatherine Holland
D.W. MoffettRichard
Tanya FenmoreWendy Marks
Jeffrey TamborMr. Larry Marks
Edan GrossRalph Marks
Julie CobbMrs. Marks
Michael Robert MurphyScott
Lisa MoncureSarah
Tom DuganMr. Adams
Where to Watch Lisa Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
fuboTV
MGM+ Amazon Channel
MGM Plus Roku Premium Channel
MGM Plus
PhiloParents Guide & Age Rating
Lisa is rated PG-13. Parents should be aware that it contains frightening scenes, intense suspense, mature themes, violence, romantic content. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.5/10, and global collection metrics, Lisa stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1990 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lisa movie hit or flop?
Lisa has received mixed reviews with a 5.5/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Lisa worth watching?
Lisa is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Thriller, Drama, Horror movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Lisa online?
Lisa is currently available for streaming on fuboTV. You can also check for it on platforms like fuboTV, MGM+ Amazon Channel, MGM Plus Roku Premium Channel, MGM Plus, Philo depending on your region.
Best Movies to Watch if you liked Lisa
How Lisa Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Lisa
**_Prosaic flick about a mother & daughter’s clash with a serial killer_** A 14 years-old girl (Staci Keanan) inadvertently strikes up a secret relationship with a distinguished restauranteur in Hollywood (DW Moffett). Unfortunately, he might also be the notorious Candlelight Killer, which would put her and her mother in danger (Cheryl Ladd). "Lisa" (1990) is a coming-of-age drama meshed with PG-13 slasher. Writer/director Gary Sherman knows how to make atmospheric horror in view of his well-done "Dead & Buried" (1981). I happened to see Brian De Palma’s “Dressed to Kill” (1980) the night prior and it was thoroughly artistic and well-written with genuine surprises. This film, by comparison, strikes me as by-the-numbers, which no doubt had to do with the modest budget. Nevertheless, “Lisa” is a perfectly serviceable film in which the mother & daughter are successfully fleshed out and you find yourself caring for them and their outcome. Staci was only 14 during shooting while Cheryl was 38. If you’re a fan of either, this is certainly worth checking out, even though it’s not exactly high art. The movie runs 1 hour, 35 minutes, and was shot in Hollywood (the apartment, flower shop and school) and Muse restaurant on Beverly Boulevard in Los Angeles. GRADE: B-
movieMx Verified
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
