Netflix’s new limited series “The Perfect Couple” offers a blend of intrigue, romance, and drama set against the backdrop of beautiful Nantucket beaches. Adapted from Elin Hilderbrand’s 2018 novel, the show stars a charismatic young cast and features Nicole Kidman in the role of Greer, the icy matriarch of the wealthy Winbury family, who hosts a lavish wedding for her son Benji and his fiancé Amelia. However, the celebration takes a dark turn when a body is found on the beach, uncovering the family’s hidden secrets.
While the series aspires to capture the addictive qualities of hits like “Big Little Lies” and “The White Lotus,” it struggles with pacing and narrative focus. Critics note that the show starts strong and finishes with an engaging conclusion but meanders unpleasantly in between. The dominance of filler content results in a viewing experience that can often frustrate the audience.
The ensemble cast features noteworthy performances, including Meghann Fahy and Dakota Fanning. Fanning, in particular, stands out as a future sister-in-law who embodies a mean-girl persona, providing moments of dark humor that give the series some much-needed energy.
Despite its uneven storytelling, the finale delivers a twist that leaves viewers surprised and entertained, highlighting the potential that the show had throughout its run. The series’ production values, including a lively opening credit sequence featuring a dance to Meghan Trainor’s “Criminals,” hint at a more playful tone that it doesn’t consistently maintain.
Though Hilderbrand’s works are typically breezy summer reads, “The Perfect Couple” may have benefited from a summer release to match its genre. Currently, amidst a crowded September lineup of new shows, it could struggle to stand out. Ultimately, while the show has its merits, it serves as a reminder that perfection is elusive.