There is a specific kind of pleasure in watching beautiful people do terrible things in expensive houses. It reminds me of renting Single White Female on VHS and feeling that illicit thrill of domestic violation.
The Housemaid, Paul Feig’s adaptation of Freida McFadden’s bestseller, taps directly into that vein. With a Rotten Tomatoes score hovering at a respectable 79%, it seems the critics have decided to embrace the trash. And honestly? Thank god.
Let me confess something: I was ready to hate this. Paul Feig is hit-or-miss for me (I’m still recovering from The School for Good and Evil), and the premise screamed “straight-to-streaming.” But seeing Amanda Seyfried lean into unhinged villainy while Sydney Sweeney plays the “innocent” interloper? That’s cinema, baby.
The Critics Agree: It’s Deliciously Dumb
The reviews aren’t calling it high art. They’re calling it fun. The Wrap labeled it “glorious, angry, hilarious,” while Bloody Disgusting praised its “operatic insanity.” This is crucial. If this movie tried to be Gone Girl, it would fail. Instead, it seems to be aiming for The Hand That Rocks the Cradle with a bigger budget.
IndieWire made the most important point: “You should absolutely see Paul Feig’s The Housemaid with a crowd.” This isn’t a film to watch alone on your laptop; it’s a film to scream at with strangers while sneaking cheap wine into the theater.
Why This Matters Now
Releasing this on December 19th against Avatar: Fire and Ash is a ballsy move. But it’s also smart. Not everyone wants to watch blue aliens explain ecology for three hours. Some of us want to watch Michele Morrone look dangerous in a suit while Seyfried gaslights everyone in the room.
It’s counter-programming at its finest. USA Today nailed it by calling it the antidote to “goody two-shoes Hallmark Christmas movies.”
A New Trilogy?
Here’s where I argue with myself. Do we need a Housemaid cinematic universe? There are two book sequels already. Part of me loves a trashy franchise (I’ve seen every Saw movie in theaters), but part of me worries the charm will wear off once the “shock” twists become formula.
But for now, I’m buying a ticket.
If you want more context on the cast, check out our breakdown of Sydney Sweeney’s best roles, or dive into why 90s erotic thrillers are making a comeback.
This isn’t just a movie; it’s a vibe check. Are you too cool for melodrama, or are you ready to embrace the chaos?
Key Takeaways
It’s Certified Fun
The 79% score confirms that while it’s not Oscar bait, it delivers on its promise of entertainment.
Seyfried Steals the Show
Critics are singling out Amanda Seyfried’s performance as the highlight, leaning into the campy tone perfectly.
The Feig Factor
Paul Feig seems to have found a sweet spot between his comedy roots and genuine thriller tension.
Crowd Pleaser
This is built for theatrical reactions, not quiet contemplation.
FAQ
Is The Housemaid actually scary?
Not really. It’s a psychological thriller, not a horror movie. Expect tension, gaslighting, and “gliding cameras,” but don’t expect jump scares or gore. It’s more about the drama of dangerous people than supernatural fear.
Why is the Rotten Tomatoes score significant?
For a genre film released in December (usually a dumping ground for bad movies or a showcase for prestige dramas), a 79% is surprisingly high. It suggests the film is competent and entertaining enough to satisfy both critics and casual audiences.
Will there be a sequel to The Housemaid?
It’s highly likely. There are two book sequels (The Housemaid’s Secret and The Housemaid Is Watching), and if the box office holds up against Avatar, a franchise is almost guaranteed.
Is this appropriate for a family holiday outing?
Absolutely not. Reviews describe it as “salacious nastiness” with “blood‑stained perversion.” Leave the kids at home and go watch this when you need a break from forced family cheer.
