In Paul Feig’s latest film, “The Housemaid,” viewers are presented with a compelling premise: a seemingly rational housewife decides to invite Sydney Sweeney, known for her striking beauty and presence, to live in her home as a live-in maid. This intriguing setup serves as the backdrop for a story that explores the complexities of human relationships and the darker undercurrents of domestic life.
Feig, who gained acclaim from classics like “Freaks and Geeks” and successful female-led comedies such as “The Heat” and “Spy,” takes a bold turn into the realm of domestic thrillers. Drawing inspiration from iconic ’90s films in the genre, he crafts a narrative that juxtaposes the charm of modern life with sinister undertones. The film pits Sweeney’s character, Millie Calloway, against Amanda Seyfried’s Nina Winchester, setting the stage for a tense clash of wills.
The opening scene establishes a palpable tension when Millie arrives at the Winchester household for a job interview. While Nina presents an immaculate home and speaks highly of her husband, Andrew, played by Brandon Sklenar, the underlying unease grows. Nina’s adoration for Andrew, an architect without formal training, begins to reveal her troubled psyche, hinting at deeper issues lurking beneath their seemingly perfect life.
As this domestic narrative unfolds, Millie’s character introduction exposes her vulnerabilities. Struggling with homelessness and a troubled past, she arrives with secrets that threaten to surface. Sweeney’s portrayal of Millie, although occasionally marred by her character’s vocal delivery, illustrates a woman in desperate need of stability. Her journey through the film emphasizes survival against overwhelming odds.
Upon her acceptance into the Winchester household, Millie’s vulnerabilities are soon met with significant challenges, particularly from Nina. The latter’s transformation from a poised hostess into a high-strung aggressor showcases Seyfried’s skill in portraying the psychological complexity of her character. This performance breathes life into the film, as it captures Nina’s toxic tendencies and manipulative behaviors, blurring the lines between gaslighting and genuine mental instability.
The film’s tension is further heightened by the dynamics between Millie and Nina. While Millie’s character has moments of strength, notably in the film’s climactic third act, she often finds herself overshadowed by Seyfried’s commanding performance. The introduction of Michele Morrone as Enzo, the groundskeeper, provides an additional layer of intrigue, though his character remains largely underutilized.
Despite some performance imbalances, “The Housemaid” effectively revives the domestic-femme-fatale thriller genre, which had seen a decline since the ’90s. The film cleverly subverts traditional narrative expectations while layering its storytelling with enough twists and emotional stakes to keep audiences engaged. In an era where stories of complex female characters are becoming increasingly prominent, Feig’s film is a refreshing addition that shines a light on both the allure and the peril of domesticity.
This engaging film reveals how even in the most ordinary settings, the extraordinary can occur. With its mix of suspense, twists, and strong performances, “The Housemaid” is a reminder of the power of storytelling that challenges perceptions, making it a noteworthy experience for film enthusiasts.