When adapting Elin Hilderbrand’s popular novel “The Perfect Couple” for Netflix, creator Jenna Lamia opted for a lighthearted take rather than a serious murder mystery. The series tracks the story of Amelia Sacks (Eve Hewson), a zoologist set to marry into the wealthy Winbury family. However, after a body washes ashore on the estate following Amelia and Benji’s (Billy Howle) rehearsal dinner, the festive atmosphere rapidly turns into a murder probe. As investigations proceed, the Winbury family’s hidden secrets emerge in unexpected and entertaining ways.
Set against the backdrop of Nantucket Island during a scenic Fourth of July weekend, the show introduces a lively group of guests celebrating pre-wedding events under a grand tent in the Winbury’s seaside yard. While Amelia’s parents and her maid of honor, Merritt (Meghann Fahy), are present, the gathering largely centers on the Winburys.
Benji, Amelia’s fiancé, is kind-hearted, but his family is less than welcoming. His older brother, Tom (Jack Reynor), is a brash character, kept in check by his cunning wife, Abby (Dakota Fanning). The youngest sibling, Will (Sam Nivola), is emotionally troubled and burdened by his past. The family patriarch, Tag (Liev Schreiber), is depicted as more interested in sports and leisure than family matters, while matriarch Greer (Nicole Kidman), a successful novelist, manipulates her husband and sons with a strategic and controlling hand.
What begins as a glamorous rehearsal dinner swiftly turns serious when Nantucket’s Chief of Police, Dan Carter (Michael Beach), receives a report of a body found in the water. Familiar with the Winbury’s affluence, Carter aims for a quick resolution, but the arrival of Detective Nikki Henry (Donna Lynne Champlin) from the mainland complicates matters as they uncover layers beneath the family’s polished exterior.
Kidman, Schreiber, and Fanning deliver compelling performances as deeply flawed individuals focused solely on maintaining their image. The pacing keeps viewers engrossed, as wedding guests are questioned and their motivations revealed. With a tone that edges on the humorous, the series subtly highlights the absurdity of the Winburys’ situation, featuring a blend of melodramatic dialogue and quirky moments, like a choreographed dance that opens each episode.
Although Amelia loves Benji, she feels suffocated by the Winbury milieu. Unlike everyone else, she doesn’t fear Greer and challenges familial norms in her quest for clarity amidst confusion. In one standout moment from Episode 3, “The Perfect Family,” Amelia directly confronts Greer about the use of NDAs, prompting shocking revelations that unsettle the dinner guests. Similar confrontations in the finale, “That Feels Better,” lead to additional explosive discoveries.
While dubbed a thrilling investigation, “The Perfect Couple” reflects on societal facades and the lengths individuals will go to protect them. Despite its absurd storyline and superficial depth, the series captivates viewers with its star-studded cast and engaging narrative, proving to be an enjoyable watch.
“The Perfect Couple” premiered on Netflix on September 5.