What's Happening?
Lionsgate has announced that a sequel to the box-office hit 'The Housemaid' is in the works, following its impressive performance at the holiday box office. The film, starring Sydney Sweeney, has grossed over $75 million domestically and $133 million worldwide within just 17 days of release. Directed by Paul Feig, the psychological thriller was produced on a budget of $35 million. The sequel, titled 'The Housemaid's Secret', will be based on the second book of Freida McFadden's bestselling trilogy. Lionsgate aims to have both Feig and Sweeney return, with Sweeney also serving as an executive producer. Rebecca Sonnenshine, who wrote the screenplay for the original film, is set to pen the sequel.
Why It's Important?
The success of 'The Housemaid' marks a significant
achievement for Sydney Sweeney, especially after her previous film, 'Christy', underperformed at the box office. This development highlights the growing trend of adapting popular book series into film franchises, which can lead to lucrative returns for studios. The decision to greenlight a sequel so quickly underscores the film's strong reception and the potential for continued audience engagement. For Lionsgate, this represents an opportunity to capitalize on the film's momentum and expand its portfolio of successful franchises, which is crucial in a competitive entertainment market.
What's Next?
Production for 'The Housemaid's Secret' is expected to begin later this year. As the project moves forward, key stakeholders such as Lionsgate, the cast, and the production team will likely focus on maintaining the elements that contributed to the original film's success. The involvement of the original director and lead actress suggests a commitment to preserving the film's unique appeal. Additionally, the sequel's development will be closely watched by industry analysts and fans alike, as it could set the stage for further adaptations of McFadden's trilogy.
