A gripping new psychological thriller is taking UK cinemas by storm, earning a remarkable 92% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes and leaving viewers declaring it one of the best films they've seen in years. The Housemaid, starring Sydney Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried, is proving to be an unmissable cinematic experience for fans of the genre.
A Cinematic Tradition Leads to a Thrilling Discovery
For one film-goer, the discovery came through a cherished family ritual. With a Sky Cinema membership granting two complimentary tickets monthly, a mother alternates trips to the local Vue cinema with her daughters. This January, the choice was The Housemaid. Expectations, shaped by a provocative trailer and viral TikTok clips, were for a potentially uncomfortable watch. The reality was a masterclass in suspense.
The film introduces us to Millie, played by Sydney Sweeney, an ex-convict on parole who is homeless and desperate for work. Her salvation appears in the form of Nina Winchester, portrayed by Amanda Seyfried, a wealthy woman seeking a live-in maid. For Millie, sleeping in her car and washing in public restrooms, the offer is a lifeline she cannot refuse.
Twists, Turns, and Outstanding Performances
Initially, the household dynamic seems clear. Nina is volatile and demanding, while her handsome husband, Andrew (Brandon Sklenar), presents as a sympathetic figure trapped with an unstable wife. As Millie endures Nina's chaos in a job she desperately needs, Andrew's compassion evolves into a predictable affair. But here, the film's predictability ends.
The Housemaid then delivers a relentless series of unexpected plot developments. The perspective shifts, revealing the truth behind Nina's descent into madness. The two-hour runtime flies by, propelled by a fast-paced narrative and genuine tension.
The performances are universally praised. Amanda Seyfried delivers an outstanding portrayal of a fragile, wronged mother. Sydney Sweeney excels, crafting a character who earns the audience's full support as she seeks retribution. Brandon Sklenar is convincingly charismatic as the adulterous husband.
Audience and Critical Acclaim
The public response on Rotten Tomatoes has been overwhelmingly positive, with the film's 92% popcornmeter score reflecting viewer delight. Many are hailing it as a top-tier thriller.
One reviewer stated the film was "absolutely nerve-racking and exciting," while another simply called it "phenomenal." The consensus is that this is a thriller that delivers high-stakes drama and clever twists, making it definitely worth the watch.
Provided one doesn't scrutinise the final resolution too closely, The Housemaid offers a compelling, well-acted, and sharply plotted cinematic journey that more than justifies its buzz and its stellar audience rating.
