Sydney Sweeney’s ‘The Housemaid’ Thriller Surprises Critics with Strong Reviews

Sydney Sweeney’s new psychological thriller, “The Housemaid,” is earning positive reviews. The film opens in theaters nationwide on December 19. It co-stars Amanda Seyfried and is directed by Paul Feig. This marks a notable turnaround for Sweeney after several recent box office disappointments.

The movie is an adaptation of Freida McFadden’s bestselling 2022 novel. Early critic reactions have been largely favorable, with many praising its entertainment value. According to the Associated Press, the film is a welcomed holiday surprise for audiences.

‘The Housemaid’ Scores a Fresh Rating on Rotten Tomatoes

The film currently holds a 78% score on Rotten Tomatoes. This is a strong result for a genre thriller. Critics highlight the film’s deranged and entertaining twists.

Megan Navarro of Bloody Disgusting called it a wildly entertaining psychological thriller. She said it lets its stars cut loose in comedic and violent ways. The movie is described as a sexy, seductive game of secrets and power.

The official synopsis sets a mysterious tone. Millie, played by Sweeney, takes a job with a wealthy couple to escape her past. Her dream job quickly unravels into something far more dangerous behind their closed doors.

Film Could Launch a New Holiday Franchise for Lionsgate

“The Housemaid” is positioned as a potential franchise starter. McFadden’s book is the first in a series that includes two sequels. Lionsgate likely views this as a testing ground for future adaptations.

Mark Kennedy from the Associated Press called it a twisty psychological horror-thriller. He noted it comes wrapped in an empowerment message. Other reviews have used words like “titillating” and “captivating” to describe the experience.

The film’s success could solidify Sweeney’s bankability in leading roles. A strong performance this weekend will be closely watched. The studio will be looking at audience turnout and cinemascore ratings.

The early critical praise for The Housemaid suggests Sydney Sweeney has a genuine hit on her hands. This psychological thriller could become a major holiday season draw for adult audiences.

A quick knowledge drop for you

What is ‘The Housemaid’ about?

The film follows a woman who takes a live-in job with a wealthy couple. Her attempt to escape her past leads her into a dangerous game of secrets and power. The story is based on Freida McFadden’s popular novel.

Who stars in the movie alongside Sydney Sweeney?

Amanda Seyfried plays the wealthy Nina Winchester. The cast also includes Brandon Sklenar, Michele Morrone, and Elizabeth Perkins. Paul Feig directed the psychological thriller.

How are critics reacting to the film?

Early reviews are largely positive, with a 78% score on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics call it wildly entertaining, deranged, and a holiday guilty pleasure. The Associated Press gave it a notably favorable review.

When does ‘The Housemaid’ open in theaters?

The film is scheduled for a nationwide release on December 19, 2025. It will be available in theaters just before the Christmas holiday. Lionsgate is distributing the movie.

Is this movie part of a potential series?

Yes, it is based on the first book in a popular series. Author Freida McFadden has written two direct sequels. The film’s box office performance will determine if more movies are made.

What was the source material for the film?

The screenplay adapts the 2022 novel “The Housemaid” by Freida McFadden. Rebecca Sonnenshine co-wrote the script with the author. The book has a massive fanbase in the thriller genre.