"The Bad Seed" is a 1956 psychological horror film directed by Mervyn LeRoy. It tells the story of Rhoda Penmark, a seemingly perfect young girl who harbors a dark secret. As her mother, Christine, discovers the truth about her daughter's malevolent behavior, the tension escalates, leading to a chilling climax. The film is based on the 1954 play by Maxwell Anderson and explores themes of nature versus nurture. It raises questions about inherited evil and the moral implications of a child's actions. "The Bad Seed" has become a classic in the horror genre, known for its unsettling portrayal of childhood innocence corrupted.