Move over, Agatha: In Netflix’s latest murder mystery limited series, “The Perfect Couple,” the culprit behind the shocking death of Merritt, the maid of honor, is revealed to be none other than Abby. Set against the backdrop of an affluent July 4th wedding weekend in Nantucket, the series unfolds with a dark and twisted tale of secrets, betrayal, and murder.
The story kicks off with the mysterious death of Merritt, the maid of honor for the bride, Amelia. As the investigation into her death unravels, it becomes clear that money and privilege play a significant role in the lives of the wealthy Winbury family. It is soon revealed that Merritt was pregnant from an affair with the family patriarch, Tag Winbury, which threatens the inheritance of Tag’s sons, especially eldest son Thomas, who is already entangled in financial troubles with his own mistress, Isabel.
However, the shocking twist in the series deviates from Elin Hilderbrand’s book, on which the show is based. In the series, Abby is revealed as the mastermind behind Merritt’s murder, having drugged her before drowning her during a late-night swim. This revelation adds a new layer of complexity to the storyline and showcases Dakota Fanning’s versatility as an actor in portraying the conniving and manipulative character of Abby.
In an interview with Variety, Fanning shared her excitement about playing the villainous role of Abby, highlighting how it was a departure from her usual on-screen personas. She discussed the campy and surreal tone of the show, embracing the humor and dark comedy that permeates the narrative. Fanning also delved into the process of filming the series, including the now-viral dance number in the opening titles, which initially faced some resistance from the cast but ultimately became a highlight of the show.
As Abby’s true nature is exposed and she faces the consequences of her actions, Fanning’s portrayal of the character’s unapologetic privilege and ruthlessness shines through. The series concludes with Abby’s arrest, leaving viewers to ponder her fate and the aftermath of her crimes. Fanning’s performance as the calculating and cold-hearted killer leaves a lasting impression, showcasing her range as an actor.
In the end, “The Perfect Couple” is a gripping and entertaining murder mystery that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. With its unexpected twists, complex characters, and stellar performances, the series delivers a compelling narrative that explores the dark side of wealth and power. Dakota Fanning’s portrayal of Abby cements her as a versatile and talented actor, capable of embodying complex and morally ambiguous characters with ease.
