Susanne Bier, known for directing the polished Nicole Kidman-starrer “The Undoing,” returns with another visually sleek production, once again featuring Kidman as a wealthy woman entangled in perilous circumstances. This time, Kidman steps into the role of Greer Garrison Winbury, an extraordinarily successful mystery writer—and thankfully not a gallery owner. Greer’s literary creations, Dash and Dolly, are reflective of her family dynamics, with Dash drawing inspiration from her affluent husband, Tag Winbury, portrayed by Liev Schreiber.
The narrative unfolds in the scenic Nantucket, where the Winbury family is in the throes of preparing for the wedding of their second son, Benji (Billy Howle), to his fiancée, Amelia (Eve Hewson), who hails from the neighborhood. In a rapid succession of introductions, viewers meet other key figures in this high-society gathering. These include Benji’s older brother Thomas (Jack Reynor) and his very pregnant wife, Abby (Dakota Fanning); the youngest Winbury sibling Will (Sam Nivola); Benji’s best friend, Shooter (Ishaan Khatter); Amelia’s maid of honor and best friend Merrit (Meghann Fahy); and the family friend Isabel (Isabelle Adjani).
Among the household staff are the efficient and snobbish housekeeper, Gosia (Irina Dubova), and the wedding planner, Roger Pelton (Tim Bagley), complemented by Greer’s editor, Enid (Adina Porter). The plot thickens when a body is discovered on the beach following the rehearsal dinner, prompting the arrival of law enforcement. Led by Chief Dan Carter (Michael Beach), Deputy Carl (Nick Searcy), and Detective Nikki (Donna Lynne Champlin), the investigation begins to peel back layers of secrets within the Winbury family’s meticulously polished façade.
Complications escalate as revelations about Chloe (Mia Isaac), Chief Carter’s daughter, surface when she suspiciously hides a bloodied shirt. Moreover, Broderick Graham (Thomas Flanagan) steps into the picture as a mysterious stranger with unknown ties to the crime. Despite the Winburys’ lavish donations to local police, aimed at ensuring cutting-edge uniforms and vehicles, the family soon confronts the harsh reality that no amount of financial influence can permanently conceal a murder.
As the storyline progresses, the characters’ unpleasant traits come to light, even affecting the seemingly grounded Amelia—a former zoo worker whose romance with Benji blossomed unexpectedly. Tag’s attractive allure, supposedly his defining trait, seems non-existent as he spends his time indulging in golf and smoking, rather than contributing anything meaningful.
.
The Winbury estate’s hierarchy is further accentuated by Gosia’s dismissive attitude toward Amelia’s parents, Karen (Dendrie Taylor) and Bruce (Michael McGrady), who go out of their way to reschedule the wedding around Karen’s medical condition, only to have their store-bought fruit gestures looked down upon. The murder also shatters the illusion of the “perfect couple” image the Winburys struggle to maintain.
Despite its chic appearance, the mystery lacks sophistication and depth, resulting in a general disinterest in uncovering the perpetrator. Kidman’s portrayal of Greer is unsurprisingly regal, a role she’s undoubtedly comfortable with, though the other characters, while competently performed, are stifled by their uninspired scripts. Even the use of extreme close-ups fails to add narrative value, offering little beyond showcasing the pristine complexions of the cast.
The high-fashion wardrobe, particularly Kidman’s, stands out. Her sophisticated, wide-legged pants and stunning azure blouse perfectly frame her piercing eyes, while the various intricate sashes and ties add to the visual appeal.
Dakota Fanning captivates as Abby, whose indifference and pointed remarks, such as the ambiguous nationality of Shooter—vaguely labeled as “from the Middle East,” and then precisely corrected as Indian—add a layer of casual cruelty to her character. Champlin’s detective also entertains, often appearing awestruck by the Winburys’ wealth while remaining vigilant for their underlying flaws.
Ultimately, “The Perfect Couple,” adapted from Elin Hilderbrand’s bestseller, captivates with its superficial charm despite the permeating clichés and convoluted plot twists. The show promises an addictive yet unfulfilling experience, from its Bollywood-inspired dance sequence in the opening credits to its final revelation. The series might have benefited from more ambition, a sharper narrative, and more intelligent mystery elements. As it stands, the production quality is high, but Nicole Kidman might be better off channeling her immense talent and star-power into more worthy projects moving forward.
“The Perfect Couple” is currently available for streaming on Netflix.
