In the captivating world of Shondaland’s newest Netflix series, “The Residence,” I find myself delving into a unique perspective of one of America’s longest-standing institutions – the White House. This show, born from Paul William Davies’ imagination and inspired by Kate Andersen Brower’s book “The Residence: Inside the Private World of the White House,” offers a bird’s-eye glance at the intricate web of daily activities that keep this symbol of American strength running smoothly. From grand events to the president’s personal quarters, hundreds of people work tirelessly behind the scenes to maintain an image of seamless efficiency.
“The Residence” is like a well-crafted comedy jigsaw puzzle, with its hilarious, eclectic, and at times, bizarre murder mystery plot. It’s the funniest and most unconventional work executive producer Shonda Rhimes has ever produced. Sticking with it is like piecing together a 1000-piece puzzle, but if you have the patience to see it through, the final picture is definitely worth the effort.
The eight-episode murder mystery (with seven episodes available for review) unfolds at the Australian State Dinner. Despite tense diplomatic relations, President Perry Morgan (Paul Fitzgerald) invites the Australian Prime Minister and his team to his residence under the pretext of Hugh Jackman’s presence and a performance by Kylie Minogue (portraying herself). White House Chief Usher A.B. Wynter (Giancarlo Esposito), dressed in a tuxedo, is seen smoothly navigating the White House, resolving issues and ensuring a pleasant experience for guests. Unfortunately, the evening takes an unexpected turn as a chilling scream echoes through the third floor, followed by a shot of A.B. lying dead in the game room. (André Braugher had initially been cast for the role but unfortunately passed away in 2023 before he could complete his performance.)
The whodunit series advances several months later. Newly appointed Chief Usher, Jasmine Haney (Susan Kelechi Watson), is summoned to appear before a Congressional committee hearing, led by Senator Aaron Filkins, to discuss the night A.B. died. Notably, the role of Senator Filkins is played by Al Franken, a former senator who resigned due to sexual misconduct allegations in 2018. Throughout her testimony, Jasmine addresses the ongoing rumors, guesses, and ambiguity surrounding A.B.’s death. She clarifies the events that unfolded in the White House during the state dinner and recounts her shock upon discovering A.B.’s lifeless body on the third floor. Furthermore, she recalls her initial encounter with Cordelia Cupp (Uzo Aduba), a renowned detective, who was called to the scene by Metropolitan Police Chief Larry Dokes after A.B.’s body was found.
After Cordelia’s introduction, “The Residence” series delves into an intriguing investigation led by a detective who happens to be a keen birdwatcher. She interrogates staff members, administrators, and guests at a state dinner, uncovering clues, facts, and statements that are meticulously scrutinized and reenacted. Each episode, such as Episode 4, “The Last of Sheila,” and Episode 7, “The Adventure of the Engineer’s Thumb,” focuses on one or two characters in great detail. In a manner similar to the “Knives Out” movies, this show is both subversive and satirical, skillfully maintaining coherence within its complex narrative and large cast.
In a distinctly unconventional manner, Cordelia disregards counsel from figures such as Harry Hollinger, the president’s top adviser, Colin Trask from the Secret Service, and FBI Special Agent Edwin Park. Instead of aligning with Park, she chooses to pursue leads that resonate only with herself. Throughout the investigation into A.B.’s murder, there are instances where she takes a break for birdwatching on the White House lawn using her cherished binoculars. As the probe into A.B.’s death broadens, the series frequently shifts between different time periods, with the storyline repeatedly revising and refining as Cordelia, Edwin, and viewers gather more information about the events that led to A.B.’s demise, which was just months before his retirement.
As a passionate cinephile, I must admit that “The Residence” is a show that mostly hits the mark, despite its crowded cast, intricate plotlines, and juggling of timelines. The series maintains a light-hearted tone, which is underscored by memorable characters such as Cordelia, the president’s brother; Tripp Morgan, played by Jason Lee; White House Butler Sheila Cannon, portrayed by Edwina Findley; and the president’s mother-in-law, Nan Cox, who has a penchant for vodka, all of whom serve as reminders that this show is not aiming for high drama.
However, there are areas where some trimming could have been beneficial, like the flashback to Cordelia’s birding vacation and certain sections that seem overly drawn out, such as President Morgan’s obsession with the ideal shower and the recurring, albeit fake, appearances of the supposed Hugh Jackman.
As Cordelia delves deeper into her investigation, a more comprehensive picture of A.B.’s character and his White House administration starts to take shape. However, what truly hooks viewers is the exploration of human desires and the ways people manipulate their personal connections for success and concealing their secrets. Although “The Residence” doesn’t quite match the polished charm of Rian Johnson’s movies, there are still many captivating aspects to appreciate.
“The Residence” is now streaming on Netflix.
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2025-03-20 10:17