The Residence on Netflix is an 8-episode murder mystery that’ll keep you hooked from start to finish. Set within the White House, the series mixes political drama with sharp humor and a twisty plot that makes it stand out in the crowded crime genre. Created by Paul William Davies and produced by Shondaland, this is sure to be popular.
The story kicks off with a pretty intense moment: during a high-stakes state dinner in honor of Australia, the Chief Usher, A.B. Wynter (Giancarlo Esposito), is found dead. And here’s where it gets interesting: the White House isn’t just about the powerful figures in politics – it’s full of people working behind the scenes who have their own dramas, secrets, and hidden motives. That’s where Detective Cordelia Cupp (played by Uzo Aduba) comes in. She’s an unconventional investigator with a unique skill set (she’s into bird-watching, for example) and a sharp mind that cuts through all the layers of mystery around the murder. She starts piecing things together, but it’s not just about solving the case – it’s about figuring out who’s playing games with who, and what really goes on in the upper echelons of power.
Uzo Aduba absolutely shines in this role. Detective Cupp isn’t your typical by-the-book cop; she brings a refreshing mix of wit, intelligence, and charm to the character. Watching her unravel the mystery is a real treat, and her interactions with FBI Agent Edwin Park (Randall Park) add an extra layer of depth to the show. They have great chemistry, offering up some lighter, funny moments that balance out the more tense, suspenseful parts of the investigation.
But the show doesn’t just rely on its leads. The supporting cast, including Susan Kelechi Watson, Ken Marino, and Jason Lee, each bring their own flair to the series, making the world of The Residence feel rich and full of life. The drama isn’t just about the murder itself – it’s about the little things that happen behind closed doors, the power struggles, the alliances, and the betrayals among the staff. The dynamics between the people working in the White House are as captivating as the mystery itself, offering a fascinating look at what could be happening off the political stage.
One thing that might throw some viewers off is the pacing. There are moments where the plot drags a bit, and with so many characters and multiple timelines, it can get a little hard to keep up. The mystery doesn’t always unfold in a straightforward way, and you’ll probably have to pay close attention to catch all the nuances and subtle clues. But honestly, that’s part of the fun. It’s a show that asks you to pay attention, to dig a little deeper, and rewards you when you do. The intricate storytelling, while occasionally challenging, also adds to the charm of the show.
Overall, The Residence is a clever, entertaining, and surprisingly heartfelt mix of comedy, drama, and suspense. It’s a fun take on the murder-mystery genre reminiscent of Knives Out. With its smart writing and strong performances, it’s definitely worth a watch. It’s got that signature Shondaland vibe: the kind of show you can binge and keep thinking about after the credits roll.
All episodes of The Residence are available now on Netflix!
