The film serves as a satirical look at the ruthless New York real estate market and the "darker side" of suburban and urban ambition. Film Statistics Release Year Genre Dark Comedy / Slapstick Runtime Approx. 89 minutes Rating Duplex (2003) - Eileen Essell as Mrs. Connelly - IMDb Duplex (2003) - Eileen Essell as Mrs. Connelly - IMDb.

In recent years, it has found a second life on streaming platforms and social media, with viewers often debating whether the couple or the old lady is the true antagonist.

Ben Stiller and Drew Barrymore play the increasingly unhinged couple, with Eileen Essell delivering a breakout performance as the "villainous" tenant. Writer: Written by Larry Doyle. Critical Reception & Legacy

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There is just one catch—the upstairs unit is occupied by (Eileen Essell), an elderly, seemingly sweet Irish widow who has lived there for decades under a rent-controlled agreement. Alex and Nancy expect the frail old woman to pass away soon, leaving them the entire house. However, they quickly discover that Mrs. Connelly is not only incredibly resilient but also a master of passive-aggressive psychological warfare. Her constant demands, loud late-night TV habits, and "innocent" interruptions drive the couple to the brink of insanity and financial ruin. Production Details

The story follows Alex Rose () and Nancy Kendricks ( Drew Barrymore ), a young, professional New York couple who believe they’ve found their dream home: a beautiful, spacious brownstone duplex in Brooklyn.

The 2003 film (released as Our House in some regions) is a dark comedy directed by Danny DeVito that explores the ultimate "neighbor from hell" scenario. Core Premise & Plot

Upon release, the film received mixed-to-negative reviews. Critics often found the tone too mean-spirited and the slapstick humor repetitive.