“The Housemaid” Director Paul Feig Reveals How Closely the Movie Follows the Hit Book (Exclusive)

“The Housemaid” Director Discusses Film Adaptation of Freida McFadden’s Bestselling Novel

Paul Feig, the director of the anticipated film adaptation “The Housemaid,” sat down with PEOPLE to reveal some exciting insights about the upcoming movie. While attending the 2025 SXSW Film & TV Festival in Austin, Texas on March 7, Feig expressed his satisfaction with how the team captured the essence of Freida McFadden’s hit thriller novel on screen.

Feig praised the team’s efforts in translating McFadden’s novel for the big screen, attributing the success to the talented writer, Rebecca Sonnenshine. He emphasised the challenges of adapting a well-received book, stating, “It’s nerve-wracking… when a book’s really good, it’s like, oh boy.” Feig, alongside star Sydney Sweeney, ensured that the adaptation struck the perfect balance between faithfulness to the source material and creative interpretation.

Describing the film, Feig teased that it is not just harrowing but also surprising. The narrative follows Millie, portrayed by Sweeney, who enters the lives of Nina (played by Amanda Seyfried) and Andrew Winchester (Brandon Sklenar) as their new housemaid. As Millie’s relationship with the mysterious groundskeeper Enzo (Michele Morrone) unfolds, secrets within the Winchester household start to unravel, leading to a gripping twist at the end – a plot point that has intrigued readers since the book’s release in 2022.

Erin Westerman, the president of production for Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, commended Sweeney and Seyfried for embodying their roles with mystery, depth, and skill, further enhancing the film’s captivating narrative. The filming locations, including New Jersey sites like Rutt’s Hut and local supermarkets, provided a realistic backdrop for the story, originally set in New York City in the novel.

“The Housemaid” is set to hit theatres on December 25, offering audiences a thrilling cinematic experience filled with suspense and unexpected revelations. The film’s cast and crew, including standout performances by Sweeney, Seyfried, and Morrone, are poised to deliver a compelling adaptation that stays true to McFadden’s gripping narrative.

As anticipation builds for the release of “The Housemaid,” fans of the book and movie enthusiasts alike can look forward to an unforgettable cinematic experience that promises to immerse them in a world of mystery, intrigue, and unforeseen twists. Stay tuned for more updates and exclusive peeks into the world of the highly-anticipated film adaptation of Freida McFadden’s bestselling novel “The Housemaid.”