Is there such a thing as a perfect couple? Netflix’s new series, The Perfect Couple, directed by Susanne Bier and released on September 5 2024, dives deep into this question by wrapping it around a lavish Nantucket wedding where a murder threatens to unravel a web of secrets. Described as a blend of mystery and social satire, does the series manage to keep you on the edge of your seat, or does it drown in its attempt to juggle multiple genres?
Personal Experience: A Conflicted Viewing
When I first sat down to watch The Perfect Couple, I was drawn in by the star-studded cast and the intriguing premise. As a fan of both Nicole Kidman and Liev Schreiber, I was excited to see how they would navigate this suspenseful tale of a wedding gone terribly wrong. Initially, the show captured my attention with its stunning cinematography, showcasing the beautiful, windswept landscapes of Nantucket. However, as the episodes progressed, I found myself experiencing a mix of emotions—moments of suspense were frequently overshadowed by uneven storytelling and predictable plot twists.
Plot Summary: Whose Big Day Is It Anyway? (No Spoilers)
The Perfect Couple revolves around the wedding of Celeste (played by Eve Hewson), a woman marrying into an affluent family, and her groom, Benji (played by Billy Howle). The joyous event quickly takes a dark turn when a dead body is discovered on the beach near the wedding venue. As the investigation unfolds, secrets begin to surface, and it becomes clear that nearly every guest has something to hide. Detective Nicholas (played by Omar Epps) takes on the challenge of untangling this mess, trying to find out not only who the victim is, but also who among the wedding guests could be the murderer.
Public Rating on Imdb
“The Perfect Couple,” a Netflix series directed by Susanne Bier, has received mixed reviews from critics. It currently holds a 54% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes with an average rating of 6.1/10, and a score of 68 out of 100 on Metacritic, indicating generally favorable reviews. Some praise its gripping narrative, star performances, and suspenseful twists, while others criticize it for its lack of depth and resemblance to similar shows like “Big Little Lies” and “The White Lotus.” Overall, it’s regarded as an engaging yet imperfect summer series
Strengths: When The Stars Align
Despite its flaws, The Perfect Couple does shine in a few areas:
- Acting/Cast: Nicole Kidman, as the matriarch Greer Garrison Winbury, delivers a strong performance, blending icy composure with hidden vulnerability. Eve Hewson’s portrayal of the bride, Celeste, captures the emotional complexity of a woman torn between love, secrets, and a desire for truth. The supporting cast, including Liev Schreiber and Dakota Fanning, add depth to their roles, making the character dynamics intriguing.
- Cinematography: The visual aesthetics of the series are captivating. The use of Nantucket’s picturesque settings—its beaches, upscale estates, and ocean views—add a layer of beauty that contrasts sharply with the dark undertones of the storyline. The camera work is meticulous, often using wide shots to capture the isolation and intimacy of the characters’ surroundings.
- Music/Soundtrack: The series’ soundtrack effectively uses classical pieces interwoven with contemporary tracks to set the mood, enhancing the tension in key scenes. The sound design is particularly noteworthy during moments of suspense, where subtle audio cues elevate the sense of unease.
Weaknesses: When The Puzzle Pieces Don’t Quite Fit
However, there are areas where The Perfect Couple fell short for me:
- Plot and Pacing: The story often feels like it is trying to be too many things at once—a murder mystery, a social commentary, and a satire. This leads to a pacing issue where the show drags in some places and rushes through critical plot points in others. The lack of focus makes it hard to become fully invested in the characters or the mystery.
- Character Development: While the series features a talented cast, some characters feel underdeveloped or one-dimensional. For example, Liev Schreiber’s character, Tag, the father of the groom, is intriguing but never fully fleshed out. The audience is left with questions about his motivations and backstory, which are only superficially addressed.
- Writing/Script: The dialogue sometimes lacks the sharpness needed to deliver the social satire the series aims for. Certain lines feel forced or overly dramatic, detracting from the overall authenticity of the characters’ interactions. The show’s attempt to critique the wealthy elite feels derivative, echoing themes that have been explored more effectively in series like Big Little Lies or The White Lotus.
Comparisons and Context: Familiar Yet Unfulfilling
In comparison to similar works, The Perfect Couple treads familiar ground. It feels reminiscent of Big Little Lies, with its ensemble cast and exploration of the dark side of privileged lives, and The White Lotus, which also focuses on murder and mystery in a luxury setting. However, unlike these predecessors, The Perfect Couple doesn’t quite manage to carve out its own identity. It lacks the wit of The White Lotus and the depth of character study seen in Big Little Lies.
Overall Impression: A Watchable Yet Flawed Series
Ultimately, The Perfect Couple offers a mixed bag. It’s watchable, particularly for fans of the cast, but it doesn’t break new ground in the mystery or drama genres. While the series has its moments—thanks largely to the strong performances and beautiful visuals—it doesn’t fully deliver on the promise of its premise. I would rate it 3 out of 5 stars. It’s an entertaining watch if you enjoy light mysteries with a touch of social satire, but don’t expect a groundbreaking experience.
Conclusion: To Watch or Not to Watch?
Would I recommend The Perfect Couple? Yes, but with a caveat: go in with tempered expectations. If you are looking for a complex, thought-provoking mystery, you might find yourself wanting more. However, if you’re after a binge-worthy show with a mix of drama, suspense, and an attractive cast, it could be worth your time.
Call to Action: Your Turn to Decide
Have you watched The Perfect Couple? What did you think? Share your thoughts in the comments, or check it out on Netflix and decide for yourself whether this series lives up to its name.
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