Get ready for a thrilling ride with The Housemaid, a movie that might just leave you scratching your head! While it aims to be a scary, funny, and romantic thriller, it falls short of its mark, predictably so. But here's where it gets controversial: is it the story's fault, or does it lie with our expectations?
The unwritten rule of screenwriting states that characters must be a tad foolish to get themselves into dangerous situations. This rule is especially true for horror movies, where characters often make questionable choices that lead to their demise. The Housemaid embraces this stupidity, presenting its premise as if it were entirely new, which is a bold move.
In the story, Millie, a recently released ex-con, seeks employment as a housekeeper in a luxurious mansion. Her employer, Nina, is a clear psychopath from the get-go, and her creepy daughter and handsome husband add to the mix. Despite the obvious red flags, Millie stays, leading to a series of predictable twists and turns.
Directed by Paul Feig, known for his female-centric films, The Housemaid feels like a rehash of his previous work, particularly A Simple Favor. While A Simple Favor was a fun, parodic thriller, The Housemaid lacks the same charm and feels like a missed opportunity.
For most of its runtime, The Housemaid is a downright silly movie. Sweeney's character wants to leave but can't, caught between a hysterical boss and a dreamy, yet potentially dangerous, husband. It's a classic case of a character making questionable choices, which, in this case, might just be the movie's saving grace.
The "big twist" and "big reveal" arrive in the final act, as expected, but they lack the impact they should have. However, the movie finally embraces its idiocy, transforming into a sleazy, self-aware horror thriller. It's almost as if the movie is mocking itself and the genre, which might be a refreshing take for some viewers.
The gap between the serious opening and the absurd turn might be intentional, leaving some audience members in stitches during the final minutes. For others, like me, it might feel like a long, drawn-out joke. Sydney Sweeney's star power might have contributed to the audience's enthusiasm, but her performance here is standard, relying on her visual appeal rather than her acting prowess.
The Housemaid fails to live up to its influences, such as Hitchcock's classics and David Fincher's Gone Girl. It lacks the originality and execution of these masterpieces, leaving viewers with a sense of familiarity and disappointment.
So, is The Housemaid worth your time? It depends on your expectations and tolerance for predictable twists. For some, it might be a fun watch, especially for Sweeney's fans. For others, it might be a frustrating experience. What do you think? Is it fair to expect more from a movie that embraces stupidity? Let's discuss in the comments!
