Paul Feig’s new movie, “The Housemaid,” is officially a hit in Australia, as Variety Australia can confirm that the thriller has passed $20 million at the Australian box office.
The film, starring Sydney Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried, has grossed USD $250 million worldwide, and Australia sits comfortably in its top five global markets.
“The Housemaid,” 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.”
“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 for later this year with Feig and stars Sweeney and Michele Morrone confirmed to return.
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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!”