So far, the fruits of TV producer Shonda Rhimes’ big-money deal with Netflix have included the most talked-about period drama since Downton Abbey in Bridgerton and twisting true crime drama in Inventing Anna.
And for her latest collaboration with the streaming giant, the Bafta, Golden Globe and Emmy winner is heading in a completely different direction.
Streaming now, The Residence is a star-studded “whodunnit?” that unfolds, in all places, following a fancy dinner at the White House, which pays homage to Agatha Christie’s classics and the more modern mysteries from Rian Johnson; Knives Out and Poker Face.
In their early reviews, critics have near-unanimously highlighted how bingeable the eight episodes of The Residence are – although they’re a little more divided about the quality of the show.
More glowing reviews have praised the miniseries for offering some glossy, fun escapism, with Uzo Aduba’s performance as detective Cordelia Cupp being particularly lauded, though more scathing critics have called The Residence out for lacking in any substance and bordering on “annoying”.
Here’s a selection of what’s been said about The Residence so far…
“The Residence is a very happy experience all round – moreish, bingeable, a complete tonic […] Although there is an ensemble vibe, it remains Aduba’s show, and rightfully so. She is a magnetic presence and The Residence takes full advantage of that. This is not television that is going to change the world, but it is going to give you eight hours of fantastic escape.”
“Scenes come and go with the fast click of a camera shutter, while the story careers through an unending series of switchbacks. It’s like the current White House: never a dull moment.”
