Australia has embraced novel-inspired thriller The Housemaid, with Paul Feig’s latest film delivering a strong box office performance locally, as its lead star Sydney Sweeney faces scrutiny overseas.
The film has surpassed $20 million at the Australian box office, placing the market among the top five globally, according to Variety Australia.
Worldwide, The Housemaid has now grossed more than US$250 million.
Marketing stunt gone wrong
However, attention has also turned to Sweeney following a promotional stunt linked to her lingerie brand Syrn, after bras were reportedly affixed to the Hollywood sign without approval from the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce.
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The actress could face potential trespassing and vandalism charges in relation to the stunt, which was carried out with her film crew.
Released by Lionsgate in the US, hit cinemas last Boxing Day and is distributed locally by STUDIOCANAL Australia.
“We are absolutely thrilled with the success of The Housemaid in Australia,” STUDIOCANAL ANZ CEO Elizabeth Trotman said.
“As an independent distributor, it’s a privilege to be one of Lionsgate’s top five global territories for this release, building on our longstanding collaboration following the success of the ‘John Wick’ franchise. The exceptional audience response reflects the strength of the film and the dedication of everyone involved.”
Novel-based success
The Housemaid has been so popular with audiences and critics alike that a sequel to the film based on the bestselling novel by Freida McFadden is already in the works.
Lionsgate is planning a production start later this year with Feig, and stars Sweeney and Michele Morrone have confirmed their return.
In The Housemaid, Sweeney starred as Millie, a young woman trying to escape her past, who is recruited to work as a live-in housemaid for the wealthy Nina (Seyfried) and Andrew Winchester (Brandon Skelnar), who have dangerous secrets of their own. Morrone plays Enzo, the Winchesters’ groundskeeper, who becomes an important ally to Millie.
“The response to The Housemaid in Australia has been overwhelming,” Feig added.
“I love Australian audiences, who have supported my movies since ‘Bridesmaids,’ and who have embraced this film’s tension, humour and twists with such enthusiasm. I couldn’t be more grateful. It’s incredibly rewarding to see the film resonate so strongly there, and I can’t wait to visit you all again for our sequel.
“Thank you, Australia, for always being so awesome!”