The highly anticipated film adaptation of the bestselling novel “The Housemaid” is set to make its debut on the big screen, though viewers should not expect a scene-for-scene retelling of the book. In this twisty thriller, Millie, portrayed by Sydney Sweeney, is a young woman with a troubled past who becomes a live-in housemaid for the affluent couple, Nina (Amanda Seyfried) and Andrew Winchester (Brandon Sklenar). It quickly becomes apparent that their seemingly perfect lives are far from ideal.
At the Los Angeles premiere on Monday, director Paul Feig shared insights with The Hollywood Reporter, expressing his excitement about the creative liberties taken in the film adaptation. He praised Lionsgate for keeping the movie’s secrets safe in its marketing campaign, stating, “It’s weird though because the book is out; all you have to do is go to the bookstore and you know the twist.” Nevertheless, Feig mentioned that the movie includes a new ending that adds depth for fans of the book, ensuring that viewers who are familiar with the source material will experience something fresh. He emphasized the desire for more closure on certain relationships and the opportunity the film provides for that.
During the discussions about how closely to align with the book, Sweeney highlighted her passion for literature and the natural tendency to compare adaptations to their original forms. While she aimed to stay true to the essence of Millie’s character, Feig introduced some changes, such as not giving Millie an accent, ensuring the film retains its own identity.
Sklenar, who plays Andrew, noted his intention to honor the book while also amplifying certain aspects of his character to surprise audiences, maintaining an engaging dynamic.
“The Housemaid” is the first installment in a trilogy, and Feig expressed his eagerness to explore Millie’s journey further should the film resonate with viewers. The chemistry between Sweeney and Seyfried, who developed a close bond during filming, is expected to be a notable highlight of the movie.
Sweeney described working with Seyfried as a rewarding experience, as they were able to seamlessly transition in and out of their characters while maintaining a casual rapport off-camera. Seyfried echoed these sentiments, appreciating the creative freedom they shared within their roles, suggesting that their collaborative spirit contributed significantly to their performances.
“The Housemaid” is set to hit theaters this Friday, generating buzz not only for its thrilling narrative but also for the strong talents behind it. As audiences eagerly await its release, there’s hope that this adaptation will capture the intrigue of the novel while offering a refreshing new take.