Freida McFadden’s hit thriller novel “The Housemaid” is hitting the big screen this December with a star-studded cast full of Hollywood A-listers.
Sydney Sweeney plays the title role in the on-screen adaptation, helmed by Paul Feig, which also features Amanda Seyfried and Brandon Sklenar. Fans finally had their first look at the psychological thriller when the official trailer was released on Sept. 16.
The teaser promises an unnerving ride, complete with tense family dynamics, ear-piercing outbursts by Seyfried, a shocking arrest, and a haunting utilization of Sabrina Carpenter’s hit “Please Please Please.”
Plot overview
The Housemaid is centered around Wilhelmina “Millie” Calloway, portrayed by Sweeney, who is an ex-convict seeking a new beginning. She gets employed by Nina Winchester (Seyfried) and her rich husband Andrew Winchester (Sklenar) as their live-in domestic worker in their opulent Long Island mansion.
Even though the Winchesters enjoy privilege due to Andrew’s family wealth, Millie is stuck in a bare attic bedroom. Her gratitude for the work quickly turns into terror as she discovers horrific secrets about the family. Despite warning signs, Millie stays on, an increasingly perilous decision that drives her deep into the center of an evil unraveling.
The Housemaid cast
- The adaptation features a A-list ensemble.
- Sydney Sweeney (Euphoria, The White Lotus) plays the leading role of Millie Calloway.
- Amanda Seyfried, Emmy winner and The Dropout and Mamma Mia! star, plays Nina Winchester.
- Andrew Winchester is played by Brandon Sklenar (1923, It Ends With Us).
- Enzo is played by Michele Morrone (365 Days).
- Indiana Elle plays Cecelia, Winchesters’ daughter.
- Elizabeth Perkins (Weeds, Sharp Objects) plays Evelyn Winchester.
Release date and how to watch
The Housemaid will open in theaters across the country on Dec. 19, 2025. The opening places the thriller firmly in position as a top holiday-season box office draw, appealing to fans of psychological suspense.
From novel to screen
McFadden’s book, released in 2022, was an instant New York Times bestseller and went viral on social media platforms such as BookTok. Its haunting blend of domestic thriller and psychological thriller genres won over the hearts of readers, propelling demand for a television adaptation.
Director Paul Feig, who is known for films such as Bridesmaids and A Simple Favor, takes the helm to bring the novel’s tension to the big screen. Having Sweeney head up as star and producer, the adaptation is set to bring the gripping turns that put the book on viral charts.
A big-name cast, a top-selling source novel, and a director with a talent for weaning suspense and drama, the Housemaid has all the makings of one of the most eagerly awaited thrillers of the year. Novelist and newcomer alike can look forward to an intense on-screen experience when it hits the theaters later this December.
