Freida McFadden’s psychological thriller The Housemaid became a bestseller after its release in 2022, thanks to its tense plot, unreliable characters, and unexpected twists. With the upcoming film adaptation directed by Paul Feig, readers are curious how faithfully the movie will follow the book — especially when it comes to casting and character portrayal.
The Original Book: Key Details
- The Housemaid was published in 2022 and quickly earned spots on The New York Times Best Sellers list.
- The plot centers on Millie, a struggling young woman who becomes a live-in housemaid for a wealthy couple (Nina and Andrew Winchester). She gradually suspects the family’s secrets are more dangerous than her own.
Film Adaptation: What We Know So Far
Release and Production
- The movie is slated for release on December 19, 2025.
- Directed by Paul Feig, with screenplay by Rebecca Sonnenshine.
- Produced by Hidden Pictures and Lionsgate; Freida McFadden, Amanda Seyfried, and Sydney Sweeney serve as executive producers.
Casting: Who is Playing Whom
Here’s a breakdown of key cast members, what roles they’ll play, and what that might mean for how the adaptation handles the characters.
| Character | Actor | What we know |
| Millie Calloway | Sydney Sweeney | Millie is the protagonist, the housemaid with a troubled past. Sweeney’s background with complex roles adds weight to Millie’s dual nature (vulnerable but resilient). |
| Nina Winchester | Amanda Seyfried | Wife of Andrew, Millie’s employer. Described as manipulative and hiding secrets. Seyfried says the role was “transformative.” |
| Andrew Winchester | Brandon Sklenar | Nina’s husband. He may seem benevolent, but the book hints at more beneath the surface. Sklenar is known for It Ends With Us and 1923. |
| Enzo | Michele Morrone | Groundskeeper with a mysterious past. Morrone reportedly resonated with the role because of his own history as a landscaper in Italy. |
| Cecelia Winchester | Indiana Elle | The young daughter of Nina and Andrew Winchester. |
| Evelyn Winchester | Elizabeth Perkins | Andrew’s mother (introducing another generation into the family, possibly significant for the story’s power dynamics). |
Book vs Film: Potential Differences & Expectations
- Faithfulness to the plot: Director Paul Feig has said the film will feature “twist-filled” elements and aims to balance staying true to the novel with bringing surprises.
- Character complexity: The casting suggests that the film wants to emphasize the subtlety and secrecy of characters (e.g., Nina, Millie). Having Sweeney and Seyfried both experienced in layered roles is promising.
- Atmosphere and setting: The book’s tension comes from the lavish but uncanny household, and the film seems to lean into that. Visuals (from first-look photos) show opulent homes, but also moments of unease.
Conclusion
Fans of The Housemaid have reason for optimism. With strong casting, an experienced director, and involvement from the author, the film seems well-positioned to capture the book’s suspense and moral ambiguity. While certain details may change (pace, visual style, perhaps emphasis on certain relationships), the core — the dark secrets, psychological tension, and unreliable façades — appears likely to survive the adaptation.