The Housemaid Review: Sydney Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried Deliver a Twisty Thriller

Director Paul Feig’s new film, “The Housemaid,” arrives in theaters on December 19. The psychological thriller stars Sydney Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried in a high-stakes battle of wits. Set in a luxurious Long Island mansion, the story explores dark secrets and shifting power dynamics.

The film marks a continued shift for Feig into stylish, camp-tinged suspense. According to early reviews, it improves upon his earlier thriller “A Simple Favor” with a steadier hand and clever twists. The story is based on the 2022 novel by Freida McFadden.

A Perfect Home Hides Imperfect People

Amanda Seyfried plays Nina, a seemingly perfect wife and mother. She lives in a gated mansion with her charming husband, Andrew, played by Brandon Sklenar. Nina hires a desperate live-in housekeeper named Millie, portrayed by Sydney Sweeney.

Millie is polished during her interview but is secretly living in her car. Nina is unusually ingratiating, quickly making Millie “part of the family.” The pristine home, however, soon reveals itself as a prison of secrets and gaslighting. Seyfried’s performance is a highlight, portraying Nina’s unpredictable and shifting moods with captivating skill.

Subverting Expectations with Sharp Twists

The plot cleverly wallows in familiar tropes before upending them. It initially presents a story of a morally unstable wealthy woman and her vulnerable employee. Dual flashbacks and well-placed clues then overturn the audience’s assumptions about all characters involved.

The film manages to weave cliché and camp into a tale about gender stereotypes and economic imbalance. It even finds room to empathize with the male character caught in a cycle. Ultimately, Feig’s femme-first perspective ensures the complex women drive the narrative to its surprising conclusion.

The final result is a slick, professional-grade piece of pulp entertainment. “The Housemaid” succeeds as a satisfying and twisty thriller that knows its own absurdity and leans into it with style.

Info at your fingertips

Is “The Housemaid” based on a book?

Yes, the film is an adaptation. It is based on the 2022 psychological thriller novel of the same name by author Freida McFadden. The screenplay was written by Rebecca Sonnenshine.

How does it compare to “A Simple Favor”?

It is considered an improvement. Reviews note director Paul Feig maintains a steadier hand here, crafting a twistier but more coherent narrative within the same designer-thriller genre.

What is the main criticism of the film?

Some find the first act slow as it sets up its elaborate plot. The film also relies heavily on familiar tropes and plot devices, though it aims to subvert them by the end.

Who gives the standout performance?

Amanda Seyfried receives significant praise. Critics highlight her unpredictable and captivating performance as Nina, which anchors the film and keeps the audience guessing.

What is the film’s release date?

“The Housemaid” is scheduled for a wide theatrical release. It opens in theaters across the United States on Friday, December 19, 2025.