A summer mystery: Unraveling ‘The Perfect Couple’
A quiet morning turns chaotic
On a serene summer morning, the tranquility of a Nantucket beach is shattered by a piercing scream. A body has washed ashore, plunging a prominent family into turmoil. This gripping scene sets the stage for the first episode of Netflix’s drama series, The Perfect Couple, adapted from the bestselling novel by Elin Hilderbrand.
A wedding day gone wrong
The series follows Amelia Sacks (Eve Hewson), whose wedding to Benji Winbury (Billy Howle) is thrown into disarray when she discovers the lifeless body of her maid of honor, Merritt Monaco (Meghann Fahy). As the investigation unfolds, secrets within the wedding party begin to surface, threatening to unravel the carefully maintained facades of everyone involved. From Benji’s domineering mother Greer (Nicole Kidman) to his charming best friend Shooter (Ishaan Khatter), each character harbors hidden truths that could destroy them.
From page to screen: Notable changes
The journey from Hilderbrand’s novel to the Netflix series took five years, during which significant changes were made. Here are some of the most striking differences:
Featherleigh Dale vs. Isabelle Adjani
In the series, the character of Isabel Nallet, played by the renowned French actress Isabelle Adjani, is a seductive family friend and lover of Thomas (Jack Reynor), the eldest son. However, Isabel does not exist in the book. Instead, a character named Featherleigh Dale fills a similar role. Featherleigh, a British interloper with financial troubles, is also involved with Thomas. Her character, though somewhat of a mess, plays a crucial role in the book’s revelation of Merritt’s killer.
Greer’s hidden past
Nicole Kidman’s portrayal of Greer Winbury, a murder mystery novelist, adds depth to the character. While both the book and series depict Greer as a composed and reserved figure, the series reveals a shocking backstory. In a climactic scene, Greer admits to her children that she met her husband Tag (Liev Schreiber) while working as an escort. Additionally, the persistent caller linked to the Turkish mafia is revealed to be her brother, Broderick Graham (Tommy Flanagan). These elements are entirely absent from the book.
Amelia’s parents: A reduced role
In the series, Amelia’s parents, Karen (Donna Lynne Champlin) and Bruce (Michael McGrady), have a minor presence. In contrast, the novel delves deeper into their relationship. Bruce, a department store salesman, drunkenly confides in Tag about his feelings for a former colleague, Robin. Karen overhears and is shocked to learn that Robin is a man. This subplot, which enriches the dynamic between Karen and Bruce, is omitted from the series.
Tag’s stoner persona
The series portrays Tag as a frequent marijuana user, a trait not present in the book. This characterization adds a layer of complexity to his character, contrasting with the book’s more ambiguous depiction.
The climactic revelation
The series finale unveils the true circumstances of Merritt’s death. Thomas’ pregnant wife, Abigail (Dakota Fanning), slips a barbiturate pill into Merritt’s drink and drowns her in the ocean. Abigail’s motive is financial; she and Thomas are in debt, and Merritt’s pregnancy threatens their access to Thomas’ trust fund. This differs from the book, where Merritt’s death is ruled an accident, and Greer alone solves the mystery, keeping it to herself.
A new beginning
In a poignant final scene, the series flashes forward six months. Amelia, now working at a zoo in London, is approached by Greer, who hands her a manuscript for a new book titled “Your Move.” This metafictional twist, absent from the book, suggests a potential reconciliation between the two women.
A dance of resolution
The series concludes with a jubilant dance sequence, featuring the director Susanne Bier spinning with the characters. This celebratory moment offers viewers a sense of closure, even if the shores of Nantucket remain shrouded in mystery.
For those who crave more details, you can watch the trailer for The Perfect Couple and dive deeper into the world of this captivating series.