NFL
By: Joe Cardoso
If you’re on the hunt for a fresh, series to dive into after White Lotus, Netflix’s “The Residence” might just be the perfect pick. This eight-episode whodunit, produced by Shonda Rhimes’ Shondaland, it is a blend of mystery, comedy, and character-driven storytelling that’s hard to resist. Set in the White House, the show combines a classic murder mystery with a modern twist. Here’s why The Residence is worth your time and why you should add it to your watchlist.
First off, the premise alone is a hook that reels you in. Imagine a murder unfolding during a high-stakes state dinner at the White House, with 157 potential suspects ranging from staff to dignitaries. The chaos of the setting—132 rooms filled with secrets, rivalries, and hidden agendas creates a mind-bending series. It’s a locked-room mystery on steroids, where every corner of the famous mansion holds a clue or a red herring. Much like a game of Clue brought to life, the show’s ability to keep you guessing is a big part of its appeal. You’ll find yourself piecing together the puzzle alongside the detective, second-guessing motives, and reveling in the twists that keep the momentum going. I was HOOKED pretty quickly.
Speaking of the detective, Uzo Aduba’s portrayal of Cordelia Cupp is a major reason to tune in. She’s not your average sleuth—she’s eccentric, brilliant, and unapologetically herself, with a quirky obsession with birdwatching that adds a layer of charm to her character. Aduba brings a fun energy to the role, balancing sharp wit with a calm, collected demeanor that makes Cordelia instantly likable. Her dynamic with Randall Park’s FBI agent Edwin Park adds a fun, buddy-cop vibe to the investigation, with their banter providing some of the show’s best moments. Cordelia’s unique approach to solving the case seeing every detail as “interesting” rather than rushing to label suspects keeps the narrative fresh and unpredictable.
The ensemble cast is another standout feature. From Giancarlo Esposito as Chief Usher A.B. Wynter to Susan Kelechi Watson as the ambitious Jasmine Haney, every character feels like they are essential to the story. The upstairs-downstairs dynamic between the White House staff and the elite guests is a new look at power, privilege, and human quirks. You’ve got everyone from a rebellious presidential brother to a vodka-loving mother-in-law, each bringing their own flavor to the mix. This blend of personalities ensures there’s never a dull moment, and the interplay between them adds depth to the central mystery.
The look of, The Residence is cool. The production design transforms the White House into a sprawling, three-dimensional stage, with clever cinematography that peels back the walls to reveal the action in a Clue-board-like fashion. It’s both familiar and novel, giving you a peek into rarely seen corners like the pastry kitchen or upper basement. This attention to detail enhances the storytelling, making the setting as much a character as the people inhabiting it.
Should You Watch:
Finally, the show’s tone strikes a perfect balance lighthearted yet gripping, witty yet heartfelt. It’s the kind of series you can binge over a weekend without feeling weighed down, it has just enough substance to keep you invested. Whether you’re a fan of Agatha Christie-style mysteries, Shondaland’s signature flair, or simply a good time, The Residence delivers. It’s not about reinventing the wheel; it’s about spinning it with style, humor, and a stellar cast. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and let Cordelia Cupp guide you through a White House caper that’s as entertaining as it is addictive. You won’t regret it trust me.
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