In the world of television, engaging murder mysteries have carved a niche, capturing audiences with their intricate plots and compelling characters. “The Perfect Couple,” currently streaming on Netflix, is another addition to this genre. Directed by Susanne Bier, known for her work on “The Undoing,” this series offers a visually appealing but somewhat empty narrative experience, featuring the indomitable Nicole Kidman. Bier once again taps into the allure of wealth and privilege, with Kidman delivering a regal performance as the central character.
Nicole Kidman plays Greer Garrison Winbury, an accomplished mystery writer whose world brims with opulence. She specializes in crafting stories about detectives Dash and Dolly, drawing inspiration from her affluent husband, Tag Winbury, portrayed by Liev Schreiber. The Winbury family gathers in the picturesque setting of Nantucket for the wedding of their second son, Benji (Billy Howle), to his beloved, Amelia (Eve Hewson).
As we delve into the narrative, we are quickly introduced to a cast of characters attending the grand event. These include Benji’s older brother Thomas (Jack Reynor) and his heavily pregnant wife, Abby (Dakota Fanning), the youngest Winbury son, Will (Sam Nivola), Benji’s close friend, Shooter (Ishaan Khatter), Amelia’s vivacious maid of honor, Merrit (Meghann Fahy), and family friend Isabel (Isabelle Adjani). Adding to the festive chaos are the meticulous and snobbish housekeeper, Gosia (Irina Dubova), the wedding planner Roger Pelton (Tim Bagley), and Greer’s editor, Enid (Adina Porter).
The tranquility of the wedding preparations is shattered when a body is discovered on the beach following the rehearsal dinner. Enter the law enforcement team led by Chief Dan Carter (Michael Beach), Deputy Carl (Nick Searcy), and detective Nikki (Donna Lynne Champlin). Their task is to untangle the mystery lurking beneath the Winburys’ polished surface. Chloe (Mia Isaac), Chief Carter’s daughter, harbors a bloody secret that links her to the crime, while Thomas Flanagan’s Broderick Graham fits snugly into the role of the enigmatic stranger.
The narrative highlights the Winburys’ futile attempts to use their wealth as a shield from scandal. Tag realizes that their generous contributions to the local police force cannot simply sweep a dead body under the rug. Each character, from the industrious zoo-worker Amelia to the supposedly charismatic Tag who spends his time golfing and reminiscing pop hits, is revealed to be deeply flawed.
. The Winburys’ meticulously curated image starts to crumble, exposing the cracks in their persona as the investigation progresses.
Despite its intriguing setup, the mystery itself lacks depth. The characters, though uniformly dreadful, fail to elicit any real empathy, which diminishes the viewer’s investment in unveiling the perpetrator. Kidman exudes her usual grace, portraying Greer with an air of elegance that seems effortless for her by now. The supporting cast performs adequately, injecting whatever vitality they can into their otherwise underwritten roles. The extensive use of extreme close-ups, while highlighting the characters’ occasionally flawless complexions, adds little in terms of character development or narrative insight.
One undeniable highlight of “The Perfect Couple” is the costume design, especially Kidman’s wardrobe. Her collection of wide-legged trousers, a striking azure blouse that accentuates her mesmerizing blue eyes, and elaborate ties and sashes, is a visual treat.
Dakota Fanning stands out as Abby, delivering a performance imbued with casual cruelty and a self-absorbed indifference to her surroundings. Her offhand remarks, like suggesting Shooter’s vague Middle Eastern origins and then promptly confirming he is from India with an “exactly,” provide moments of dark humor. Champlin also shines as the detective enamored by wealth while maintaining a sharp awareness of the underlying faults.
While the series is riddled with clichés and boasts numerous twists and turns that often defy logic, “The Perfect Couple,” based on Elin Hilderbrand’s bestseller, retains a certain addictive charm. From the Bollywood-esque dance sequence that kicks off the opening credits to the climactic revelation, it captivates viewers. However, a more clever and ambitious approach would have elevated the show significantly. The lack of ambition is a disservice to such a handsomely produced series, and one can’t help but hope that Kidman channels her immense star power into more substantive projects moving forward.
“The Perfect Couple” is streaming now on Netflix, inviting viewers to explore this glamourous, albeit shallow, murder mystery.
