Streaming services have increasingly turned to domestic thrillers, tapping into a rich vein of mid-level pop entertainment that captivates audiences. Netflix’s latest limited series, “His & Hers,” adapted from Alice Feeney’s novel, exemplifies this genre with its blend of cheating spouses, hidden identities, and shocking plot twists. This engaging content is perfect for binge-watching during the cold, quiet days of winter.
“His & Hers” centers around Anna Harper, played by Tessa Thompson, a glamorous news anchor returning to her job after a personal tragedy—the death of her child. Anna’s comeback is complicated by the presence of a basic blond co-worker who has taken over her role during her absence. In an effort to reclaim her position, Anna volunteers to report on the murder of a young woman in her small hometown of Dahlonega, Georgia. While Feeney’s original novel unfolded in an English village, the show’s American setting brings a distinct flavor, evoking comparisons to Harlan Coben’s dramas that often shift locations for adaptation.
The series packs a more intense punch than typical adaptations, featuring graphic violence and explicit scenes that create a heightened sense of drama. Anna’s estranged husband, Jack, played by Jon Bernthal, is embroiled in a web of deceit as he investigates the murder of a young woman he had an affair with—who also happens to have connections to Anna. This complicated relationship adds layers of suspense and intrigue, as Jack navigates the investigation while harboring secrets of his own.
Thompson’s portrayal of Anna blends icy confidence with vulnerability, hinting at deeper issues linked to her past. The show touches on racial and class themes relevant to Anna’s character as she returns to a town where she and her mother, portrayed by Crystal Fox, are among the few Black residents. However, the exploration of these themes often feels superficial, and the uneven accents highlight the show’s occasional lack of authenticity.
The character of Priya, played by Sunita Mani, is a breath of fresh air amidst the turmoil, often serving as the voice of reason in a chaotic narrative filled with emotional turmoil and tension stemming from the couple’s shared grief over their lost child. The series delivers familiar tropes of a soap opera, but it also fosters a discomforting realism in the couple’s emotional struggles.
While the narrative structure of Feeney’s novel, which shifts between multiple perspectives, does not fully transfer to the screen, the series still manages to create an addictive atmosphere. Its combination of gossip and unexpected twists provides the thrill of a captivating mystery, perfect for viewers looking to escape into a world of intrigue. Despite the seemingly chaotic storyline, the experience of watching “His & Hers” can be delightfully absorbing, inviting viewers to unwind and let the ludicrous plot unfold without too much scrutiny. As streaming platforms continue to explore this genre, the allure of gripping thrillers remains undiminished, promising entertainment even during the dreariest of winter days.