65. Spoiler Review: The Housemaid (2025 film)

Psychological thrillers are having a massive moment, but finding a truly successful book to film adaptation remains a rare feat. Today we discuss how director Paul Feig, known for his range in films like Bridesmaids and A Simple Favor, took the beloved source material by author Freida McFadden and elevated it for the big screen. While the book set a high bar, this cinematic version manages to heighten the tension through creative risks and licenses that ultimately make for a thoroughly entertaining experience.For today's episode, Roya Tavakolian (@RoyalTeaReads on IG) returns to the podcast to compare the movie to its literary roots. We dive into the all star cast including Sydney Sweeney (Euphoria, The White Lotus) and Brendan Sklenar (1923), though the clear MVP of the film is Amanda Seyfried (Mamma Mia!, Mean Girls). Her performance is absolutely unreal and sets the bar high for the movie. We also break down the specific changes Paul Feig made to the narrative and why those choices helped the movie take the story up a notch.This stands as one of the best book to movie adaptations of 2025. The Housemaid is playing in theaters and is available to rent and buy on all platforms now too.If you are enjoying the show, please leave a review because it really helps the podcast.We hope you check out the movie. Let us know what you think and as always thanks for tuning in.