Director Paul Feig's latest venture, The Housemaid, offers a modern, glossy take on classic gothic tropes, delivering a psychological thriller that, despite some predictable beats, manages to grip the audience with its intrigue and palpable tension. Released on 2 January 2026, this film adaptation of Freida McFadden's popular thriller novel has garnered a 3.5 rating from both critics and users, marking it as a worthwhile watch for genre enthusiasts.
From Fresh Start to Nightmare: The Plot Thickens
The story follows Millie, a young woman portrayed by Sydney Sweeney, who is released on parole after serving a decade in prison for murder. Desperate for a fresh start, she secures a live-in housemaid position with the affluent Winchester family. What initially appears as a dream opportunity swiftly descends into a harrowing nightmare. Her employer, the volatile Nina Winchester (Amanda Seyfried), and her ostensibly kind husband, Andrew (Brandon Sklenar), are harbouring dark, dangerous secrets behind the doors of their luxurious home.
The unease begins from the moment Millie is assigned a bedroom in the attic—a room with a window that doesn't open and a deadbolt with no key. The tension escalates rapidly. On merely her second day, Nina flies into an irrational rage over misplaced notes, unveiling a pattern of erratic and cruel behaviour designed to torment the new housemaid. Andrew, meanwhile, plays the charming saviour, further muddying the waters of trust and reality. The suspense is dialled up by the presence of a mysterious gardener, Enzo (Michele Morrone), adding another layer of creepiness to the already oppressive atmosphere.
Performances That Power the Suspense
While the film's narrative has its peaks and valleys, the performances remain consistently compelling. Sydney Sweeney delivers a nuanced portrayal of Millie, effectively transitioning from a seemingly hapless victim to a woman discovering her boldness. However, it is Amanda Seyfried who steals the show with a strikingly terrifying performance. She masterfully embodies the psychotic, wealthy boss, making every scene she inhabits crackle with unstable energy. Brandon Sklenar is equally powerful as the gentle husband whose unconditional love for his wife masks deeper complexities.
Director Paul Feig successfully builds a gripping sense of dread in the first half, largely driven by the unpredictability of Nina's actions, which are further coloured by sinister suburban gossip about her past. The film does lose some momentum midway before a central plot twist reinvigorates the story. While the twist itself may not be groundbreaking, it is executed within a tight narrative that allows earlier oddities to click satisfyingly into place. The movie does not shy away from moments of brutality, featuring scenes of gore that underscore its pulpy thriller roots.
Final Verdict: A Glossy, Engaging Outing
The Housemaid proves to be an engaging cinematic experience. It may tread familiar ground and embrace its pulpy nature, but the combination of high gloss, sustained intrigue, and well-crafted tension ensures it holds the viewer's attention. The strong cast, led by Seyfried's chilling turn, elevates the material, making this psychological thriller a recommended watch for those seeking a dose of stylish suspense. The film successfully delivers on its core promise: a tense, atmospheric ride into the dark secrets of a seemingly perfect household.
