Paul Feig Reveals How Blake Lively Helped With Making The Housemaid

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Paul Feig received a simple favor from a longtime friend. 

The director shared that Blake Lively, whom he previously collaborated with on the films A Simple Favor (2018) and the upcoming Another Simple Favor (2025), assisted in casting for his new movie, The Housemaid. The film features Sydney Sweeney as Millie Calloway, Amanda Seyfried as Nina Winchester, and Brandon Sklenar as Andrew Winchester.

Paul recently shared with TopMob News that Blake Lively was full of praise for their co-star, Brandon, after working with him. Paul said Lively repeatedly told him how talented Brandon was, and after meeting him, Paul immediately understood why, saying, ‘He really is great!’

I was so excited to see Brandon again! He actually played Atlas Corrigan, Blake’s love interest, in the It Ends With Us movie earlier this year – I loved his performance! But that’s not all – he’s also connected to the stars of The Housemaid, which is coming to theaters December 19th. It’s a small world, and I can’t wait to see what he does with this new role!

Additionally, Blake and Paul had also worked with Michelle Morrone (Enzo) in Another Simple Favor. 

Paul explained that when he first read the role of Enzo, he immediately thought, ‘This feels like it was written specifically for Michele.’

Paul became involved with the project because he loved Freida McFadden’s novel and quickly contacted Lionsgate to discuss directing a movie based on it.

Paul remembered passionately telling them, ‘I really need to direct this film.’ He explained that even though people saw him as a comedy director, he knew he was the right person for the job, and it turned out to be one of the most rewarding experiences of his career.

For the Bridesmaids director, the beauty of the story lies in its big twist. 

He described the story as dealing with a heavy topic that takes a dark turn, but emphasized the enjoyment comes from the initial misleading clues and the satisfying payoff when all the mysteries are revealed and we see justice served.

That’s why Paul admitted he felt “pressure” to get the story right for fans of the written work. 

The most important part was finding the right actors and adapting the story well, which our writer, Rebecca Sonnenshine, did a fantastic job with. Then, we focused on bringing everything from the source material to life on screen as effectively as possible.

If you’re excited for the movie version of The Housemaid, coming to theaters December 19th, here are some other books that are being adapted into films!

Based On:Jenny Han‘s 2011 book We’ll Always Have Summer

Featuring Lola Tung, Christopher Briney, Gavin Casalegno, Sean Kaufman, and Rain Spencer. Premieres July 16 on Prime Video.

Fans are eagerly awaiting the return of The Summer I Turned Pretty after a year off! Everyone wants to know what happens next with Belly Conklin and her complicated relationship with brothers Conrad and Jeremiah. Although Jeremiah seems to have the upper hand right now, the new season—with 11 episodes—will likely show us who Belly ultimately ends up with.

This series is based on Julia Whelan’s 2018 novel. It stars Sofia Carson, Corey Mylchreest, Dougray Scott, Catherine McCormack, Harry Trevaldwyn, Esmé Kingdom, Nikhil Parmar, and Poppy Gilbert. It premieres on Netflix August 1st. The story follows Anna, an American woman who goes to Oxford University to achieve a dream, and quickly falls in love with a local student named Jamie, leading to a transformative romance. It’s a classic, sweeping love story set in a beautiful British location.

Based On: Richard Osman‘s 2020 novel

The film stars Helen Mirren, Pierce Brosnan, Ben Kingsley, Celia Imrie, David Tennant, Naomi Ackie, and Jonathan Pryce.

Premieres: August 28 on Netflix

We’re thrilled about these books! They feature charming stories centered around four retired crime-solvers, and with the talented cast involved, we’re expecting a truly wonderful and cozy mystery.

Based On: London Rules, book five of Mick Herron’s Slow Horses series

I was so thrilled to see such an incredible cast come together for this film! It features the amazing Gary Oldman, alongside the talented Jack Lowden, and the always brilliant Kristin Scott Thomas. Plus, you’ve got Saskia Reeves, Rosalind Eleazar, Christopher Chung, Aimee-Ffion Edwards, Ruth Bradley, James Callis, Tom Brooke, and the legendary Jonathan Pryce – honestly, a dream team!

Premieres: September 24 on Apple TV+

We’re thrilled to see Jackson Lamb and his unconventional team from Slough House back in action! This time, they’re tasked with protecting the prime minister amidst personal danger within the team. As with any adventure featuring the ‘Slow Horses,’ expect plenty of mistakes, questionable snack choices by Lamb, and hopefully, not too many casualties.

As a lifestyle expert, I’m really excited about the new movie based on Colleen Hoover’s popular 2019 book! Hoover’s already a huge name thanks to BookTok, and this film is poised to be another big hit. It stars Allison Williams, McKenna Grace, Dave Franco, and a fantastic supporting cast. The story centers around Morgan and Clara, and their already complicated relationship is pushed to the limit after a life-altering event. It’s a moving drama about family and picking up the pieces, and it hits theaters October 24th – definitely one to watch!

Based On: Stephen King’s 1982 novel (writing as Richard Bachman)

The film stars Glen Powell, Josh Brolin, Lee Pace, Katy O’Brian, Michael Cera, Emilia Jones, Daniel Ezra, and William H. Macy.

Premieres: In theaters Nov. 21

We’re really looking forward to seeing Glen Powell, who’s having a great moment, star in a remake of a classic action film. He’s taking on the role originally played by Arnold Schwarzenegger. The story centers on a man trying to survive a dangerous global game show where contestants are hunted for a cash prize. What makes it even more unsettling is that the film is set in the very near future – 2025 – adding to the suspense. We’re excited – and a little scared – to see how this turns out!

This film is based on the popular Broadway musical Wicked, which itself was inspired by Gregory Maguire’s novel Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West. The movie stars Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, Jonathan Bailey, Michelle Yeoh, Jeff Goldblum, Ethan Slater, Marissa Bode, Peter Dinklage, Bowen Yang, and Keala Settle. It premieres on November 21st. Fans are especially excited about the incredible cast and the fact that this beloved story – a prequel to The Wizard of Oz – has been adapted into a two-part film, guaranteeing entertainment for the next two Thanksgiving holidays.

Based On: Ruth Ware’s 2016 novel of the same name

The film stars Keira Knightley, Guy Pearce, Hannah Waddingham, Daniel Ings, Kaya Scodelario, David Adala, and Gugu Mbatha-Raw.

Premieres: October 10 on Netflix

The new Netflix adaptation promises a thrilling and terrifying experience. The story centers around Knightley’s character, who finds herself in a frightening situation: stuck on a cruise where she witnesses a possible crime – someone being thrown overboard – but no one believes her when she tries to alert the authorities. It’s a nightmare scenario packed with danger.

Based On: Mary Shelley’s iconic 1818 gothic horror

Starring: Jacob Elordi, Oscar Isaac, Mia Goth and Christoph Waltz

Premieres: November 2025 on Netflix

Okay, seriously, I’m losing it! Isaac as Victor Frankenstein? And Elordi as the monster?! Just hearing that casting is enough to make my year! I mean, there have been SO many Frankenstein adaptations, but this… this is different. It’s Guillermo Del Toro! The man is a master of gothic horror, and he’s been wanting to tell this story for almost twenty years! Knowing his vision is finally coming to life on Netflix? I’m already glued to my seat, I swear!

This movie is based on Maggie O’Farrell’s 2020 novel and stars Paul Mescal, Jessie Buckley, Joe Alwyn, and Emily Watson. It premieres in theaters on December 12th. The film tells a fictionalized story of the tragic death of William Shakespeare’s 11-year-old son, an event that captivated readers in the novel. With direction from acclaimed filmmaker Chloé Zhao, who also co-wrote the screenplay with O’Farrell, this promises to be a powerfully moving and unforgettable film.

Based On: Freida McFadden’s 2022 novel

Starring: Sydney Sweeney, Amanda Seyfried, Brandon Sklenar and Michele Marrone

Premieres: December 25

We’re really looking forward to this new adaptation because of its talented cast. The story centers around a maid who discovers dark secrets within a wealthy family. Plus, Paul Feig – known for his twisty thrillers like A Simple Favor – is directing, so we expect a suspenseful and exciting experience.

This film is based on the 2022 novel by Hoover. The cast includes Maika Monroe, Tyriq Withers, Rudy Pankow, Lauren Graham, Bradley Whitford, Lainey Wilson, and Nicholas Duvernay. It will premiere on February 13, 2026. The story follows Kenna, who returns to her hometown after five years hoping to reconnect with her daughter. She unexpectedly finds support from a local bar owner who offers her a second chance. Notably, the film is based on a book by a best-selling author who also co-wrote the screenplay with Lauren Levine.

This movie is based on the 2021 novel by Emily Henry and stars Tom Blyth, Emily Bader, Lucian Laviscount, Jameela Jamil, Lukas Gage, and Sarah Catherine Hook.

Premieres: January 9, 2026 on Netflix

We’re thrilled to see Henry’s popular novels adapted for the screen! With impressive performances in films like The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes and My Lady Jane, Blyth and Bader seem ideally cast as Alex and Poppy.

Based on: Emily Brontë’s 1847 novel

Release Date: February 13, 2026

Starring: Jacob Elordi and Margot Robbie

We’re thrilled to announce a new film adaptation of Wuthering Heights! Director Emerald Fennell, who brought us Saltburn, is working again with stars Jacob Elordi and Robbie to create a fresh and unique take on the classic story of Catherine Earnshaw and Heathcliff. Get ready to return to the dramatic moors!

Based On: Andy Weir’s 2021 novel of the same name

Starring: Ryan Gosling, Sandra Hüller and Milana Vayntrub

Release Date: March 20, 2026

We’re thrilled about this! Ryan Gosling has played a spaceman before, but this time his journey is even bigger. He wakes up from a coma as the only survivor of a mission to the Tau Ceti system, 12 light-years away. Now, he has to complete the mission alone – to fix a problem that’s causing the sun to dim and save the world from being wiped out. No big deal, right?

Based on: Hoover‘s 2021 book

Starring: Anne Hathaway, Dakota Johnson and Josh Hartnett

Premieres: May 15, 2026

We’re thrilled about this project, especially with Anne, Dakota, and Josh on board! The story—about a writer taking over a popular book series after the original author has an accident—is full of surprises. Having these three talented actors bring it to life on screen makes it even more exciting.

Based On: Suzanne Collins’ 2025 novel

The film stars Joseph Zada, Whitney Peak, Mckenna Grace, Elle Fanning, Maya Hawke, Kelvin Harrison Jr., Jesse Plemons, and Ralph Fiennes. It will premiere on November 20, 2026.

We’re thrilled to announce that Lionsgate will be making a movie based on the backstory of Haymitch Abernathy, Katniss and Peeta’s mentor! This news came on the same day as the announcement of the next Hunger Games film. The movie will focus on Haymitch’s own experience winning the Hunger Games 50 years before Katniss and Peeta, revealing his story from the 50th Hunger Games.

 

Based On: Julia Quinn‘s 2001 Bridgerton novel An Offer From A Gentleman

The series stars Luke Thompson, Yerin Ha, Jonathan Bailey, Claudia Jessie, Nicola Coughlan, Luke Newton, Adjoa Andoh, Ruth Gemmell, Katie Leung, Michelle Mao, and Isabella Wei.

Release Date: TBD 2026 on Netflix

I’m absolutely thrilled for the next season! We’ve watched Benedict Bridgerton search for his place and himself for three seasons, and it’s finally happening – he’s found love! Plus, we’re getting a new face, Sophie Baek, played by Ha, and I can’t wait to see how she fits into the Bridgerton world. It’s going to be amazing!

Based on: Rufi Thorpe’s 2024 novel
Starring: Elle Fanning, Michelle Pfeiffer and Nicole Kidman

Coming in 2026 to Apple TV+, this series is generating buzz thanks to the addition of Nicole Kidman to the cast. It’s based on a highly-regarded book about a woman who, after becoming a young single mother, turns to OnlyFans. With Kidman on board, this eight-episode limited series is definitely one to watch.

I’m absolutely thrilled about the upcoming Apple TV+ series based on Holly Gramazio’s novel! The premise is wild: I mean, imagine coming home to a husband you’ve never met! That’s what happens to Lauren, and things get even stranger when husband after husband starts appearing from her attic – seriously, over a hundred! It’s not just a quirky story, though; it really makes you think about what Lauren wants out of life and whether she’ll finally take control and go for it. I can’t wait to see Juno Temple bring this incredibly unique and thought-provoking story to life.

This new series is based on the hugely popular book series by Patricia Cornwell, which includes 26 novels. It stars Nicole Kidman, Jamie Lee Curtis, Ariana DeBose, Bobby Cannavale, Simon Baker, and Jake Cannavale. It’s coming soon to Amazon Prime Video. We’re really looking forward to it because anything starring Nicole Kidman is a must-watch (think Big Little Lies, Nine Perfect Strangers, and The Undoing). Plus, the show features Oscar-winning actresses playing crime-solving sisters – it’s already shaping up to be one of our favorite new shows of the year!

 

This new series is based on Elin Hilderbrand’s 2023 novel and stars Jennifer Garner. It will be available to stream on Peacock, with the premiere date still to be announced. Fans are excited because Hilderbrand is known for her captivating Nantucket beach reads, and pairing that with a popular actress like Garner is a winning combination! Garner plays Hollis, a food blogger whose life is disrupted by a personal tragedy. To cope, she plans a special weekend getaway with her closest friends, but things don’t go as planned. As the weekend unfolds, hidden tensions and surprising secrets come to light, promising a compelling and dramatic story.

Based on Stephanie Meyer’s 2020 novel, a new animated version of the Twilight saga – told from Edward Cullen’s perspective – is coming to Netflix. After a ten-year wait for the book’s release, fans will soon be able to see this retelling come to life, and a sneak peek at the animated version of the famously sparkly vampire is sure to be a hit.

As a lifestyle expert, I’m already buzzing about this new Apple TV+ series! It’s based on Marissa Stapley’s fantastic 2021 book and stars the incredibly talented Anya Taylor-Joy and Drew Starkey as leads. Honestly, just seeing their names is enough to get me excited! But the story itself is a real page-turner: it follows a young woman who gets pulled back into the world of con artistry she grew up in, all in an effort to build a secure future. With Reese Witherspoon’s Hello Sunshine producing and an amazing supporting cast including Annette Bening, Timothy Olyphant, and Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, I’m already marking my calendar – this one is going to be good!

Based on: Alice Feeney’s 2020 Novel

The film stars Tessa Thompson, Jon Bernthal, Pablo Schreiber, Crystal Fox, Sunita Mani, and Rebecca Rittenhouse.

Premieres: TBD on Netflix

We’re hooked by this suspenseful thriller! It centers around a person who returns to their hometown after a long period of isolation, and their arrival coincides with a murder investigation. A local detective – played by recent Emmy winner Bernthal – is particularly intrigued by this newcomer and the crime itself.

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2025-12-04 06:18