The Housemaid Review: Amanda Seyfried and Sydney Sweeney Unleash a Campy Thriller

Amanda Seyfried and Sydney Sweeney star in a new psychological thriller. The film, “The Housemaid,” premieres on December 19. It is directed by Paul Feig from a novel by Freida McFadden.

The movie is a throwback to the female-driven thrillers of the 1990s. It delivers a juicy mix of suspense and campy sensationalism for holiday viewers.

A Classic Setup With Modern Twists

Amanda Seyfried plays Nina Winchester, a wealthy suburban wife. She hires Sydney Sweeney’s Millie Calloway as a live-in maid. The setup seems perfect in a palatial home.

Nina’s behavior turns erratic and controlling quickly. She gaslights Millie with unreasonable demands. The new maid, on conditional release from prison, feels trapped.

The dynamic shifts as secrets unravel. According to the original review, nobody in the central triangle is what they seem. Allegiances form and shatter with violent consequences.

Stylish Tension and Over-the-Top Fun

Director Paul Feig injects devilish humor into the tension. Seyfried is a highlight, switching from kindness to scalding rage effortlessly. Her performance is both terrifying and darkly funny.

Sweeney’s character starts subdued but grows increasingly ruthless. The story piles on outrageous surprises and twists. The violence escalates to almost Grand Guignol levels by the final act.

The film succeeds as holiday counterprogramming. It offers a good-looking escape filled with salacious nastiness. It runs slightly long but delivers the promised thrills.

“The Housemaid” provides a potent dose of nostalgic, over-the-top thriller entertainment. The standout performances from Amanda Seyfried and Sydney Sweeney make the ridiculous twists immensely watchable. This is a fun, blood-stained diversion for the season.

A quick knowledge drop for you

What is The Housemaid movie about?

It follows a troubled young woman who becomes a live-in maid for a wealthy family. The seemingly perfect wife who hires her slowly reveals a psychotic, controlling nature. Their power struggle leads to violent and unexpected consequences.

Is The Housemaid based on a book?

Yes. The film is adapted from the novel of the same name by Freida McFadden. The screenwriter is Rebecca Sonnenshine, who adapted the story for director Paul Feig.

Who else stars in the film alongside Seyfried and Sweeney?

The cast includes Brandon Sklenar as the husband, Andrew. Michele Morrone plays the groundskeeper, Enzo. Elizabeth Perkins also appears as the husband’s imperious mother.

What is the tone of the movie?

The tone is a mix of psychological suspense and arch, campy comedy. It deliberately echoes the sensational thrillers of the 1990s. The film leans into its own preposterousness for entertaining effect.

How long is the film’s runtime?

The movie has a runtime of 2 hours and 11 minutes. Some critics noted the pacing could be tighter. However, the twists and performances maintain engagement.