The Housemaid marks a bold genre shift for director Paul Feig, better known for his comedies, as he dives into the world of psychological suspense with a campy, high‑energy thriller. Based on Freida McFadden’s popular 2022 novel and adapted by Rebecca Sonnenshine, the film follows Millie, played by Sydney Sweeney, a young woman desperate for a second chance after a string of setbacks. When she takes a live‑in housekeeper job with the Winchester family, things seem promising — until the glossy veneer of her employers’ opulent lifestyle cracks.
Amanda Seyfried’s Nina Winchester initially appears warm and welcoming, but her behavior soon spirals into unpredictable and dramatic extremes. Co‑star Brandon Sklenar plays Nina’s husband Andrew, adding tense chemistry and layers of intrigue. Critics note that The Housemaid revels in its bold pacing, genre nods to dark ’90s thrillers, and deliberate use of heightened emotions and plot turns. The film’s tone winks at the audience, delivering both suspense and campy extravagance that make it a memorable holiday season release.
Performances are a focal point of the film’s appeal, with many reviewers highlighting Seyfried’s unapologetically intense turn and Sweeney’s committed portrayal of a woman navigating manipulation, desire, and self‑assertion. Beneath the stylish surface, the story probes themes of power, class divides, and the psychological danger of hidden motives. The Housemaid opens in theaters December 19, 2025 in the U.S., with release dates in Australia and the UK shortly after, positioning it as one of the season’s most talked‑about thrillers.