Can you keep a secret?
That was the headline for the movie trailer.
The Housemaid stars Sydney Sweeney as Millie and Amanda Seyfried as Nina Winchester. The story begins when Millie, desperate for a fresh start, applied for a live-in position with the wealthy Winchester family. Nina, the secretive lady of the house, initially welcomed her with an air of elegance and charm. However, the facade of Nina’s perfect life is quickly debunked as disturbing truths surfaced, spiraling into a high-stakes psychological thriller.
Based on the 2022 bestseller by Freida McFadden, this film is a sensory experience that constantly forces you to question what is real and what is a carefully constructed lie. Beyond the suspense, it explored deeper themes of female empowerment, independence and the complexities of traditional family values. The film masterfully captured the chilling isolation of a woman living in a sprawling mansion on the outskirts of the city, where the unknown lurked around every corner.
The ending was a genuine surprise that left me thoroughly impressed. While I was not expecting the final twist, a fellow writer was whispering theories like a seasoned detective—sensed something was amiss long before the climax. If I had to describe the film in three words, it would be: trust, manipulation and survival.
The Housemaid is now screening in the cinemas!
The Fifth Parlour would like to thank Encore Films for the invitation.