Naomi Watts Shines in Tense Immigrant Drama

In 1960s New York, immigrant homemaker Hermine Ryan, portrayed by Naomi Watts, navigates domestic perfection that masks a deep secret. The film "The Housewife" investigates a Nazi-hunting case, but its strength lies in its exploration of Hermine's deceptive nature. Naomi Watts' performance provides tension and purpose, portraying a woman lying to herself and others. Director Ben Shirinian's debut feature, while ambitious, signposts its plot twists, making the true story of Hermine Ryan's past guessable. Despite narrative shortcomings, the film's production values and cast, including Tye Sheridan and Michael Imperioli, create an absorbing character study. Lena Olin provides a potent performance as a Holocaust survivor, adding crucial weight to the film's climax.