Provocative, elegant, and thrilling, The Perfect Couple, Netflix’s series starring Nicole Kidman, masterfully takes a jab at the glamorous façade of wealth. As the summer fades and the days grow shorter, there’s no better way to hold on to those final golden moments than diving in.

I was instantly drawn to The Perfect Couple – a captivating mix of mystery, drama and glamour – that felt like the perfect send-off for the season. Based on the novel by Elin Hilderbrand, the series brings the sun-drenched days of summer back to our screens just as we prepare for cooler nights. With Kidman at the helm, how could I resist? This isn’t just another binge-worthy show, it’s a chance to savour summer’s lingering intrigue, and the secrets hidden beneath the surface of Nantucket’s elite.

The show opens with Amelia Sacks (played by Eve Hewson), a zookeeper on the verge of marrying into one of the wealthiest families in Nantucket. The Winbury clan is led by famed novelist Greer Garrison Winbury (Kidman), who spares no expense in making her son Benji’s (Billy Howle) wedding the event of the season. The grand celebration is set to take place on the family’s estate, Summerland, with the press invited to cover the luxurious occasion. But instead of a picture-perfect wedding, the day ends with the family and guests taking turns at the police station. That morning, a body is found washed up on the shores of Summerland.

Here’s why you need to watch it!

A gripping mystery

Was it an accident or murder? The death of bridesmaid Merritt Monaco (Meghann Fahy) throws the wealthy wedding party into turmoil. With her wild and carefree spirit, Merritt had rubbed many guests the wrong way – especially in Nantucket’s upper echelons, where appearances are everything. But is jealousy really enough to kill? Amelia, unsettled, begins digging into her soon-to-be in-laws, uncovering shaky alibis and dark secrets within the Winbury family. And yes, the show’s ending differs from the original book.

Relationship dramas that sizzle

Through Amelia’s outsider perspective, The Perfect Couple offers a biting look at the dysfunctional dynamics of the Winbury family, riddled with affairs, rivalries and money woes. It’s not a matter of who’s cheating, but rather who isn’t! This also brings us into an emotional love triangle between Amelia, her fiancé Benji, and his best man Shooter. Showrunner Jenna Lamia has cited inspirations like Knives Out, Big Little Lies, and Succession, with even some props from the latter making their way into this series.

Standout performances

Amelia’s pregnant sister-in-law, Abby (Dakota Fanning), provides some of the most shocking yet entertaining moments, from obsessing over a stretch-mark cream not available to the public, to cracking jokes about Merritt’s death while raiding wedding gifts. Fanning’s portrayal of Abby’s icy exterior and underlying insecurity is a true highlight. Kidman’s commanding presence as Greer, masking her own dissatisfaction with her privileged life, is equally spellbinding.

Breathtaking Nantucket setting

The contrast between the Winburys’ perfect image and their dirty secrets is underscored by Nantucket’s stunning beauty. With its pristine beaches, cobblestone streets, gourmet restaurants and luxury boutiques, the island is a haven for “old money.” The show captures this charm, drawing viewers into the world of Nantucket’s elite. Even the small details, from the famous Turkey Terrific sandwich to the Cisco Brewers beer, were crafted with authenticity in mind.

Dreamy summer fashion

Signe Sejlund’s costume design channels the spirit of Nantucket with a mix of bold colours, nautical patterns, and understated Scandinavian elegance. Each character’s wardrobe reflects their personality, from Abby’s pastel maxi dresses to Greer’s chic high-neck gowns, and Amelia’s understated, natural style. Special mention goes to Amelia’s wedding dress, designed by Danish couturier Jesper Høvring, whose work for the Danish royal family inspired the simple yet graceful design.

This show offers more than just a mystery – it dives deep into the lives of its characters, with an ironic look at wealth and privilege. The Perfect Couple is the perfect way to close out the season with its mix of tension, beauty, and intrigue.