Words Tabatha Golat
I first heard whisperings about The Residence, the new Netflix mystery series, through social media. I was intrigued, but I’ll admit, the promotional clips didn’t pull me in. After debating what to watch next, I finally pressed play, and I’m so glad I did. The show stars Uzo Aduba as Detective Cupp, a role that showcases her immense talent. Having seen her in Orange is the New Black, I was eager to see what she would bring to this new character, and she certainly did not disappoint. Her performance, combined with the show’s quirky charm, clever storytelling and smart humour, made The Residence feel both fresh and engaging.
The Residence is a murder mystery comedy-drama set in a fictional version of the White House. The series begins with a scandal surrounding a murder during an Australian State Dinner, and the chaos that follows. Detective Cupp, the “world’s best detective,” is brought in to solve the case.
The show keeps you guessing until the very end, offering intrigue with clues woven throughout each episode. The fast-paced storytelling reminded me of Knives Out, with its sharp writing and satisfying twists. If you enjoy well-crafted mysteries, this one will be right up your alley.
What stood out to me was how the show revealed the complex relationships of the White House staff behind the scenes. It explores their personal and professional dynamics, showing how the staff’s work is like a ballet of timing, discretion and order.
Detective Cupp, in addition to being an expert detective, is an avid birder, which adds an unexpected yet endearing quirk to her character. Her mid-interview birdwatching sessions feel perfectly in line with her eccentric brilliance.
I ended up enjoying The Residence far more than I expected. It was smart, funny and visually striking. Some of the shots were unlike anything I’ve seen before, adding creativity that elevated the series beyond a typical whodunit. The attention to detail in both the plot and the visual style makes it stand out as a uniquely captivating show. That creativity stayed with me long after I finished the final episode.
The Residence is a perfect choice for anyone looking for something a little different and with just eight episodes, it’s great for starting a new show without too much commitment. If you enjoy a mix of intrigue, clever humour and unique storytelling, this one’s for you!
For more shows with a similar tone, check out:
1. Knives Out (Amazon Prime)
2. The Afterparty (Apple TV+)
3. Only Murders in the Building (Disney+)
4. The Flight Attendant (Crave)
5. The Politician (Netflix)
