Paul Feig Discusses ‘The Housemaid,’ Sydney Sweeney, and Surprising Twists

Paul Feig, acclaimed director known for his comedic work, has ventured into the realm of psychological thrillers with his latest film, *The Housemaid*. This movie, based on Freida McFadden’s 2022 novel, presents a stark shift from Feig’s typical genre. It stars Sydney Sweeney as Millie Calloway, a young live-in maid, and Amanda Seyfried as her employer, Nina Winchester.

Director’s Evolution in Genre

Feig’s career is marked by successful comedies like *Bridesmaids* and *Freaks and Geeks*. However, he expresses a deep appreciation for thrillers, stating, “I love the high stakes of them.” His latest film, which premiered on December 19, blends suspense with unexpected twists, steering away from the humor his fans might expect.

Plot Overview and Characters

*The Housemaid* revolves around Millie, who navigates a complex and tense relationship with her wealthy employer, Nina, who exhibits erratic behavior. The storyline features elements of domestic drama and psychological suspense, effectively keeping audiences on the edge of their seats.

• Protagonist: Millie Calloway, played by Sydney Sweeney.
• Antagonist: Nina Winchester, played by Amanda Seyfried.
• Setting: A luxurious household in Long Island.

The adaptation required a careful balance. Feig aimed to retain critical elements from McFadden’s book while introducing fresh interpretations to engage viewers. He notes the challenge of pleasing fans of the original material while also adding his creative flair.

Feig’s Collaborative Approach

In bringing the film to life, Feig collaborated closely with Sweeney, who also served as an executive producer. Their shared enthusiasm for the project played a crucial role in developing Millie’s character. Feig cites Sweeney’s performance in *Reality* as a pivotal moment that convinced him of her suitability for the role.

Ambitious Themes and Visual Storytelling

Feig has crafted *The Housemaid* to reflect the ambiance of classic Hitchcock films, integrating suspense with dark humor. The film showcases themes of deception and power dynamics across socioeconomic lines. Feig emphasizes the necessity of delivering an unforgettable cinematic experience, urging audiences to engage deeply with the narrative.

Audience Engagement and Thrilling Experience

Fielding questions about audience reactions, Feig believes that movies should provoke visceral responses. He draws parallels between effective filmmaking and crafting a perfect martini, where each element must harmonize seamlessly.

As the director articulates, “You have to give them something undeniable.” He aims for *The Housemaid* to be a thrilling experience, inviting viewers to explore the captivating and darkly comedic aspects of the story.

In an era where audiences seek fresh content, Feig’s ambitious pivot towards thriller signifies a desire for innovation in storytelling. *The Housemaid* stands as a testament to his artistic evolution, promising to intrigue fans of both psychological dramas and his established comedic style.