The acting, sets and locations were amazing, however its the story which is haunting me. The fact this story has resonated with so many people is comforting yet also heartbreaking. I WAS that mother. Same age, same socio-economic position, same partner, dysfunctional parents. I loved nature. The thing that hurts the most is I had the same potential. I had university scholarships but was still too poor to finish. I'm still essentially a 'Maid'. But my son is at University. This story hurts my soul. Not all stories are meant to make you feel good but that is so many peoples realities. This Series is about LIFE. And that is why it is amazing.
663 Reviews
Stayed up all night!
Cookie11112 October 2021
With every step of Alex's struggle, I couldn't stop watching this series. Compelled to see her be treated better. Better by her family, the system and people in general.
I haven't stayed up all night watching a series for decades, and I'm a Binge-aholic! I wish I read the book first tbh.
Andie Macdowell, you have always been a superstar, but you working this role has launched you into the stratosphere! Bravo.
Domestic abuse, poverty, untreated mental illness - its a parasite on humanity. Maid takes you directly down the path and I thank all the people behind this story. You have created an evoking story telling tapestry that hopefully creates change.
Hopefully after people watch Maid, the next time they have the opportunity, they realise kindness and compassion can costs nothing. And if you come from privilege, open your eyes and help your fellow man.
I haven't stayed up all night watching a series for decades, and I'm a Binge-aholic! I wish I read the book first tbh.
Andie Macdowell, you have always been a superstar, but you working this role has launched you into the stratosphere! Bravo.
Domestic abuse, poverty, untreated mental illness - its a parasite on humanity. Maid takes you directly down the path and I thank all the people behind this story. You have created an evoking story telling tapestry that hopefully creates change.
Hopefully after people watch Maid, the next time they have the opportunity, they realise kindness and compassion can costs nothing. And if you come from privilege, open your eyes and help your fellow man.
heartwrenchingly beautiful
djurrepower22 October 2021
A journey worth taking
Just-A-Girl-148 October 2021
This show is definitely worth watching. It's a real life journey. And a powerful one.
Some critics complained that some of the decisions made by the main character are so terrible it's alienated them but if you watch this show, by the time you get to the 9th episode you will get it. I know, I did. It was only by the 8th and 9th episodes that I fully understood what Alex and women like her are going through. It's easy to judge but if you go through a horrible situation like that, you will make mistakes. It's impossible not to.
I also liked how the show depicted the other characters. Each of them were dealing with their own set of problems. The writing and acting are very good. It's very realistic and powerful. I believe that if you take this journey, you won't regret it. By the time I finished binge watching the show I got an entirely new perspective on situations I thought I understood.
Highly recommended!
Some critics complained that some of the decisions made by the main character are so terrible it's alienated them but if you watch this show, by the time you get to the 9th episode you will get it. I know, I did. It was only by the 8th and 9th episodes that I fully understood what Alex and women like her are going through. It's easy to judge but if you go through a horrible situation like that, you will make mistakes. It's impossible not to.
I also liked how the show depicted the other characters. Each of them were dealing with their own set of problems. The writing and acting are very good. It's very realistic and powerful. I believe that if you take this journey, you won't regret it. By the time I finished binge watching the show I got an entirely new perspective on situations I thought I understood.
Highly recommended!
Masterful, captivating and somber
UniqueParticle17 October 2021
Margaret Qualley is riveting throughout; I've loved her several roles she's always worth watching! I didn't expect this show to be so sad yet so powerfully acted feels so genuine. Lately I've been really into Buffy the vampire slayer but I'm glad I decided to watch Maid it's so worth it. Crazy how intense everything starts out and improves as it goes on. Maid is very lovable I highly recommend it!
POOR ALEX.
andrewchristianjr5 November 2021
This series shows the reality of being in poverty and how generational trauma is past on. If people don't deal with mental difficulties, bad habits and do nothing to help themselves it always affects their children. I really felt for Alex and her struggles for navigating her way out of a situation that wasn't great for her.
Outstanding and in your face
DLochner23 October 2021
A strong, but above all honest and courageously told story about a life that exists so often, but from which one so often turns a blind eye. The young leading actress plays her role outstandingly. And believable. Netflix ventured into a subject that was certainly not easy to implement, but it proves what strength and diversity they are capable of. Outstanding, in your face.
Much-needed Story But Needed Consulting
gratefulandhonored15 October 2021
This type of movie was way overdue. People need to know how it really is, and this movie gave them a clue.
I only wished that the writer, producer, and director would have done more research.
For example, DV shelters come with caseworkers and access to lawyers. So, they would've gone to court with her the first time. And you don't have to file a police report or have witnesses or a history of reports or witnesses to have the court believe that you're a victim of DV.
This misleading information can discourage those who are contemplating leaving. And a court isn't so quick to give a child over just because the father has a home and a job. I don't even think they were married. Besides, a DV shelter suffices a place to live and the ability to provide for your child. And the victim would have been instructed by the caseworker to not reveal the name of the shelter where she was residing, not even in court.
Most women who are victims of DV do not know or understand that they are victims. Most are in complete denial.
So, I like that this movie showed that in the beginning. I would just suggest that they realize that actual victims are watching these kinds of movies and getting information, so they need to be careful not to discourage them.
Talking to DV workers in various regions of the country could have made this movie so much better.
I only wished that the writer, producer, and director would have done more research.
For example, DV shelters come with caseworkers and access to lawyers. So, they would've gone to court with her the first time. And you don't have to file a police report or have witnesses or a history of reports or witnesses to have the court believe that you're a victim of DV.
This misleading information can discourage those who are contemplating leaving. And a court isn't so quick to give a child over just because the father has a home and a job. I don't even think they were married. Besides, a DV shelter suffices a place to live and the ability to provide for your child. And the victim would have been instructed by the caseworker to not reveal the name of the shelter where she was residing, not even in court.
Most women who are victims of DV do not know or understand that they are victims. Most are in complete denial.
So, I like that this movie showed that in the beginning. I would just suggest that they realize that actual victims are watching these kinds of movies and getting information, so they need to be careful not to discourage them.
Talking to DV workers in various regions of the country could have made this movie so much better.
A lesson in empathy that's clearly lost on many
straitjacketfun16 October 2021
You can really tell who's lucky enough not to have lived through the kind of generational trauma depicted in this show based on people's ratings.
Instead of victim blaming and accusing the characters of being stupid and making bad decisions, you should really just be THANKFUL AF that you weren't able to relate to any of it, because this is so many people's reality. You can judge the characters all you like but it says more about you than it does about them. Namely, that you're incapable of feeling empathy for anyone you can't personally relate to. And lack of empathy is a huge factor in why these situations play out the way they do in real life.
Some of y'all need a serious wake up call to the struggles that exist outside your privileged personal bubbles.
Instead of victim blaming and accusing the characters of being stupid and making bad decisions, you should really just be THANKFUL AF that you weren't able to relate to any of it, because this is so many people's reality. You can judge the characters all you like but it says more about you than it does about them. Namely, that you're incapable of feeling empathy for anyone you can't personally relate to. And lack of empathy is a huge factor in why these situations play out the way they do in real life.
Some of y'all need a serious wake up call to the struggles that exist outside your privileged personal bubbles.
Important
nancyldraper23 November 2021
This was not always an easy series to watch. It dealt with some very disturbing issues and sometimes it stayed in moments too long which caused the storytelling to be laboured (I have confess, I did a visual fast forward a couple of times). Inspired by a New York Times best selling memoir, which I have not read, it has the feel of something truly authentic, especially because it speaks of a kind of trauma that is incredibly personal yet unnoticed by others. I learned a great deal about this insidious terror and the mammoth climb (personal and government issue) for those who wish to get through it. There were two standout performances for me, Rylea Nevaeh Whittet, who is the youngest cast mate at 3 years old, and the breathtaking British Columbia locations. Margaret Qualley was a new face for me in the titular role and I was interested to learn she is Andie MacDowell's daughter. I was not surprised to learn she was a dancer, however, because of one of the rare moments of pure joy in the film (I'll let you discover that for yourself). Because of treatment of the subject matter, I think this is a must see series, which bumps up my rating to a 7.5 (important) out of 10. {Drama}
She is not stupid!
emtristan17 December 2021
I've read the reviews, the bad and the good, the bad reviews all said that the protagonist is very stupid, and makes stupid decision after another, and how that is not how life is, that is just not the case, this is exact what this story needs, because in real life, we regret decisions everyday, bad things happen, and you tell yourself: "God! How was I so stupid, why didn't I do this instead, how didn't I see that coming?" We can all relate to that feeling if it came to being betrayed, wasting money or time and especially domestic abuse. And the protagonist has that moment, when she falls back with her abuser, and she realized it was a bad decision, she breaks down and says: how could I be so stupid?
Who is watching this?!
amyfleck9 November 2021
I'm actually shocked by all the stellar reviews on this show. This show deserves NOWHERE near an 8.5. Everything is so over the top, the characters, the scenarios, the dialog. Not to mention, not one character is likable, aside from the 3 year old. Even the main girl, she has the biggest chip on her shoulder, she's rude to everyone that tries to help her, and makes the stupidest decisions. Even under her circumstances, she's impossible to root for or sympathize with. I'm gonna say this, even her 'abusive' boyfriend is more likable than her at times. I dont know who the audience is giving all these good reviews, but I'm a single mother who has been through some of these hardships and I dont think any of this is realistic. Not even the acting was that great. This is average AT BEST.
Powerful and raw
jaimemedina-362888 October 2021
I love this show. It caught me completely by surprise. It's never predictable and always feels genuine, authentic. The writer finds a beautiful line - never fully glorifying or demonizing anyone. Everyone has a heart. Everyone has a story.
Masterpiece
danielcereto29 November 2021
Instense realistic drama about domestic violence and all the consequences. Vicious circle. Life. Abuse. Escape. Repeat.
Amazing performance from all the cast. Andy McDowell is superb, Maddy is amazing, but who steals the show is Margaret Qualley. She should win an Emmy for this acting masterclass.
One of the best dramatic mini series from all time. A must.
Amazing performance from all the cast. Andy McDowell is superb, Maddy is amazing, but who steals the show is Margaret Qualley. She should win an Emmy for this acting masterclass.
One of the best dramatic mini series from all time. A must.
"Cathy Come Home": Revisited
rbrb15 October 2021
Probably the best Netflix I have ever seen!
If I had known what this series would be about before seeing it I doubt if I would have bothered to view it as too serious; but once i saw the first instalment it had me hooked and all the rest of the episodes are compelling and riviting.
In effect:
Deals with the way many of us can be easily exploited and unfairly mentally abused.
The genius lies in making a serious issue watchable but at the same time highly entertaining.
Hopefully it will educate a lot of people on how not to treat others. Laws need to be changed to accomplish this. And what protections are available need to be less full of red tape.
The young woman and her child are the stars of the movie but the actress who plays her mother (in the series as well as in real life) steal the show.
Brilliant production with all the players giving super performances.
More than almost 60 years in the UK a show called "Cathy Come Home" was so good it changed lives:
Lets see if 'Maid' will do the same.
10/10.
If I had known what this series would be about before seeing it I doubt if I would have bothered to view it as too serious; but once i saw the first instalment it had me hooked and all the rest of the episodes are compelling and riviting.
In effect:
Deals with the way many of us can be easily exploited and unfairly mentally abused.
The genius lies in making a serious issue watchable but at the same time highly entertaining.
Hopefully it will educate a lot of people on how not to treat others. Laws need to be changed to accomplish this. And what protections are available need to be less full of red tape.
The young woman and her child are the stars of the movie but the actress who plays her mother (in the series as well as in real life) steal the show.
Brilliant production with all the players giving super performances.
More than almost 60 years in the UK a show called "Cathy Come Home" was so good it changed lives:
Lets see if 'Maid' will do the same.
10/10.
Something we lost - real characters
cumjww1 October 2021
This is really amazing, you get to know authentic people and understand how they feel and why.
Margaret Qualley is absolutely outstanding and believable, BC is always something to look at and the story itself gives you a lot to consider.
In a time where characters say things that characters in tv shows usually say, this is really something!
Margaret Qualley is absolutely outstanding and believable, BC is always something to look at and the story itself gives you a lot to consider.
In a time where characters say things that characters in tv shows usually say, this is really something!
Had me sobbing by the end
ravenclaw_girlrules7 October 2021
Most fluid and realistic writing in any show I've ever seen. It really puts you in the shoes of the protagonist, struggling with her, crying with her. It was such a rough journey that by the last episode tears were streaming down my face. Never has a show conjured such strong empathy from me while highlighting the bear trap of poverty in the U. S. and the world.
Help me ... help myself
kosmasp7 January 2022
Yes I know the famous line goes differently ... but it is more fitting for the movie here to use it like that. Also I have to admit, that for a show that is quite close to cross the line into cliches - it is a thin line after all - it handles itself more than well.
Which is down to the actors (not just but of course our main heroine) and the makers of the show. A very important issue ... one that we may feel is way over the top and couldn't possibly exist in the real world .. and yet it does. Just because we were lucky enough not to have experienced it, doesn't mean others were as lucky.
It also takes twists and turns that you may not expect like that. And it has a flawed but so relatable main character ... it almost hurts. But yes even she is not able to avoid doing things wrong. And even when you think she should act a certain way ... it is sometimes easier said than done.
An important and really good show - please if you are abused (even "if only" mentally), reach out and talk to someone. The show states that remaining silent and hoping it'll go away is not going to work ... something it has in common with reality and life ... fleshed out characters and believable turns, make this a must watch.
Which is down to the actors (not just but of course our main heroine) and the makers of the show. A very important issue ... one that we may feel is way over the top and couldn't possibly exist in the real world .. and yet it does. Just because we were lucky enough not to have experienced it, doesn't mean others were as lucky.
It also takes twists and turns that you may not expect like that. And it has a flawed but so relatable main character ... it almost hurts. But yes even she is not able to avoid doing things wrong. And even when you think she should act a certain way ... it is sometimes easier said than done.
An important and really good show - please if you are abused (even "if only" mentally), reach out and talk to someone. The show states that remaining silent and hoping it'll go away is not going to work ... something it has in common with reality and life ... fleshed out characters and believable turns, make this a must watch.
Realism at it's most gut wrenching
electryshian6 October 2021
I watched this show over the course of 2 days and it ripped my heart to pieces and then knit it back together again. I saw myself and my young daughter in the same situations that Alex faced if I hadn't had my parents there to catch me. Honestly I messaged my mom when it was over and thanked her for everything g she did for me. It was a show of triumph, heart break, and the resiliency of the human spirit. Fantastic performances by all.
Sympathy decreased every episode
purpletangerinepromotions9 November 2021
I'm not rating the performances or direction... both are great...
I'm confused about why we're constantly supposed to feel sorry for someone who consistently makes bad and selfish choices... Everytime someone or something good happens to progress her life, she messes it up... she takes advantage of a nice guy, knowing he's interested... resents her father for his appalling behaviour 20 years ago even though he is completely different now but forgives her mother everytime... yes her mother has mental health issues but the same empathy isn't shown to the father... she cleans the house of a successful, hard working black women who forfeited her personal life to succeed... For some reason we're supposed to feel sorry for Alex that she doesn't have her wealth or success... in a world where we are constantly told black women are up against the odds this character made it so why can't Alex? Alex had the option to study English at college but decided to have a child with no money and live in a trailer... she made her own bad decisions time and time again... Alex needs to grow up and start making some good decisions and stop using people.
I'm confused about why we're constantly supposed to feel sorry for someone who consistently makes bad and selfish choices... Everytime someone or something good happens to progress her life, she messes it up... she takes advantage of a nice guy, knowing he's interested... resents her father for his appalling behaviour 20 years ago even though he is completely different now but forgives her mother everytime... yes her mother has mental health issues but the same empathy isn't shown to the father... she cleans the house of a successful, hard working black women who forfeited her personal life to succeed... For some reason we're supposed to feel sorry for Alex that she doesn't have her wealth or success... in a world where we are constantly told black women are up against the odds this character made it so why can't Alex? Alex had the option to study English at college but decided to have a child with no money and live in a trailer... she made her own bad decisions time and time again... Alex needs to grow up and start making some good decisions and stop using people.
Not that great
LucyBonette5 October 2021
This is just unpleasant to watch for various reasons. Firstly, the acting is not that great. Main character has one facial expression, eyes and mouth wide open. Mother of main character is a cliché, over the top manic person.
Secondly, it's kind of predictable. The main character makes poor decisions, and you can see what's going to happen right from the start. You immediately know a party is going to get out of hand, for example. The poor decisions make it hard to watch, but the predictability is worse.
Finally, while I'm sure the American system is bureaucratic and flawed (I'm not from the US, but it's probably not much different where I live in Europe), the main character often seems entitled. Even though she says thank you with a deadpan face all the time. It's not everyone's fault you got into trouble, people are trying to help. But because of how the contradictions in the welfare system are repeatedly mentioned, you do get the feeling you're watching propaganda. It's also very obvious they wanted to showcase all forms of abuse, highlighting a different type in each episode. That gives off an educational or informative vibe, rather than a drama show. Sometimes, the different forms of abuse are literally spelt out for the viewer (yes, I understand there is more than just physical abuse, thank you).
Maybe it's just hard to watch that life is rough for many people and generational problems are real, either way it's not a pleasant watch, but it doesn't make you sympathise either. The main character also keeps refusing help from qualified people, which I'm sure of often the case in real life for people who live in poverty. But it's quite frustrating to watch. I suppose that makes it realistic.
Secondly, it's kind of predictable. The main character makes poor decisions, and you can see what's going to happen right from the start. You immediately know a party is going to get out of hand, for example. The poor decisions make it hard to watch, but the predictability is worse.
Finally, while I'm sure the American system is bureaucratic and flawed (I'm not from the US, but it's probably not much different where I live in Europe), the main character often seems entitled. Even though she says thank you with a deadpan face all the time. It's not everyone's fault you got into trouble, people are trying to help. But because of how the contradictions in the welfare system are repeatedly mentioned, you do get the feeling you're watching propaganda. It's also very obvious they wanted to showcase all forms of abuse, highlighting a different type in each episode. That gives off an educational or informative vibe, rather than a drama show. Sometimes, the different forms of abuse are literally spelt out for the viewer (yes, I understand there is more than just physical abuse, thank you).
Maybe it's just hard to watch that life is rough for many people and generational problems are real, either way it's not a pleasant watch, but it doesn't make you sympathise either. The main character also keeps refusing help from qualified people, which I'm sure of often the case in real life for people who live in poverty. But it's quite frustrating to watch. I suppose that makes it realistic.
All too real and believable a story
james-goddard11 October 2021
Only watched two episodes so far but really feel for the main character and sadly the story line is all too believable.
Also no idea why somebody would give it such a low rating of 2 stars so can only presume that this is because they have issues with the subject matter.
Also no idea why somebody would give it such a low rating of 2 stars so can only presume that this is because they have issues with the subject matter.
3 episodes in...
kate-dunlop-383-3128841 October 2021
Another Netflix Hit !!
destinf2 October 2021
Emotional journey
ThunderBird9191 October 2021
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