This collection of detective films focuses on the often overlooked role of maids in solving mysteries. From classic whodunits to modern thrillers, these films showcase the intelligence and resourcefulness of maids, making them central to the unfolding of intricate plots. This selection not only provides entertainment but also offers a unique perspective on the genre, highlighting the contributions of characters typically in the background.
The Lady Vanishes (1938)
Description: Although not exclusively about a maid, the character of Miss Froy, a governess, plays a crucial role in the mystery aboard a train, with the maid's observations being key to solving the disappearance.
Fact: Alfred Hitchcock directed this film, which is considered one of his early masterpieces.
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The Ghost and Mrs. Muir (1947)
Description: While primarily a romantic fantasy, the maid Martha plays a significant role in uncovering the truth about the ghost's past, adding a detective element to the story.
Fact: The film was adapted from a novel by R.A. Dick (Josephine Leslie).
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Gosford Park (2001)
Description: Set in the 1930s, this film intricately weaves the lives of the upstairs and downstairs inhabitants of a country estate, with the maids playing key roles in unraveling a murder mystery.
Fact: The film was nominated for seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
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The Maid (2009)
Description: In this Chilean film, a maid's long service with a family leads to a series of mysterious events, making her an unexpected detective in her own right.
Fact: The film was Chile's submission for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in
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The Housemaid (2010)
Description: A South Korean thriller where a new housemaid becomes entangled in a web of deceit and murder, showcasing her cunning and survival instincts.
Fact: This film is a remake of the 1960 classic of the same name.
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The Help (2011)
Description: Although more of a social drama, the maids in this film uncover and reveal the secrets of their employers, playing a detective-like role in exposing racial injustices.
Fact: The film was nominated for four Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
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The Woman in Black (2012)
Description: While not directly about a maid, the housekeeper Mrs. Daily aids in the investigation of supernatural occurrences, making her an integral part of the mystery.
Fact: The film is based on Susan Hill's novel of the same name.
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The Maid's Room (2014)
Description: An immigrant maid in a wealthy Long Island home becomes embroiled in a murder investigation, using her unique position to solve the crime.
Fact: The film explores themes of class and immigration in contemporary America.
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The Secret of Crickley Hall (2012)
Description: A family hires a maid who helps them unravel the dark history of their new home, blending elements of horror with detective work.
Fact: This is a TV mini-series adaptation of a novel by James Herbert.
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The Governess (1998)
Description: A governess, not a maid, but her role in uncovering family secrets and solving a mystery makes this film relevant to the theme.
Fact: Minnie Driver stars and also co-wrote the screenplay.
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