Netflix’s The Residence is a refreshingly unique take on the classic murder mystery, seamlessly blending farcical comedy, biting satire, and riveting suspense. Created by Paul William Davies and backed by Shondaland, the series sets its intrigue within the White House, providing an upstairs-downstairs drama laced with political intrigue, power struggles, and a wildly entertaining murder investigation.
With 132 rooms, 157 suspects, and one dead body, the stakes are as high as ever. The show thrives on its razor-sharp dialogue, eccentric characters, and a mystery that constantly twists and turns, keeping viewers utterly captivated. The White House becomes more than just a backdrop—it is a character in itself, full of secrets and unexpected moments that make The Residence a must-watch.
Uzo Aduba’s Unforgettable Turn as Detective Cordelia Cupp
At the heart of the chaos is Uzo Aduba’s Cordelia Cupp, a world-class detective with an idiosyncratic approach to solving crime. Aduba brings an effortless wit, charm, and razor-sharp intellect to her role, crafting a character that is as amusing as she is brilliant.
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Cupp’s deep passion for birdwatching is cleverly woven into her investigative methods, making her one of the most fascinating and unique detectives to grace the screen in recent memory. Her relentless pursuit of truth, matched with her dry humor and unshakable confidence, elevates The Residence beyond just another mystery—it becomes a showcase for one of television’s most compelling new protagonists.
Randall Park’s Masterclass in Straight-Man Comedy
Among the show’s impressive ensemble, Randall Park is a revelation. He effortlessly transitions between being the straight man in a sea of chaotic personalities and slipping into moments of unexpected hilarity with an undetectable finesse. His ability to subtly react—whether through a well-timed sigh, a deadpan glance, or the briefest hesitation before delivering a punchline—makes his performance one of the most underappreciated comedic masterclasses in the series.
What’s most brilliant about Park’s performance is how seamlessly he shifts between the anchor of the show’s logic and a contributor to its absurdity. One moment, he is the voice of reason, grounding the audience in the investigation’s complexity, and the next, he’s effortlessly riding the comedic waves, blending in perfectly with the show’s heightened reality. His comedic instincts are so precise that it’s easy to miss just how many of the show’s funniest moments are rooted in his impeccable timing.
A Who’s Who Cast That Delivers Scene-Stealing Performances
The supporting cast is just as stellar, each bringing their own eccentricities to the high-stakes mystery. From political heavyweights to the dedicated but dysfunctional staff of the White House, every character is carefully crafted with layers of intrigue, humor, and complexity. Each character adds their own flair to the investigation.
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Giancarlo Esposito is masterful as A.B. Wynter, the White House’s Chief Usher, bringing his signature gravitas and commanding presence. Susan Kelechi Watson, Isiah Whitlock Jr., Edwina Findley, Molly Griggs, and Jason Lee all deliver exceptional performances, each bringing layers of depth to their characters. Special mention goes to Ken Marino, whose portrayal of the smooth and calculating Harry Hollinger injects a delightful level of intrigue into the show’s already tangled web of secrets.
The White House as the Perfect Murder Mystery Playground
One of The Residence’s most striking achievements is how it transforms the White House into a living, breathing mystery labyrinth. The show’s production design is nothing short of outstanding. François Audouy’s meticulous recreation of the White House offers an unparalleled level of authenticity, while clever use of a 3D dollhouse model helps orient viewers within its grand maze of rooms and hidden passageways.
From the ostentatious State Dining Room to the clandestine corners of the staff quarters, the series paints a rich and vibrant picture of life behind the closed doors of the most famous residence in the world. The show balances grandeur with secrecy, making every shadowy corridor and lavishly decorated room a potential crime scene or clue-filled treasure trove.
A Mystery That Keeps You Hooked Until the Last Second
Davies masterfully crafts a whodunnit that respects the genre’s best traditions while boldly subverting expectations. The script is packed with witty dialogue, thrilling reveals, and unpredictable character dynamics that keep viewers glued to the screen. The pacing is tight, allowing for both suspenseful moments and uproarious comedy, making The Residence as entertaining as it is intellectually engaging.
Each episode peels back layers of deception, peeling away at the intricacies of power, privilege, and the hidden machinations of White House life. The result is a show that doesn’t just keep you guessing—it dares you to dive deeper, to suspect everyone and trust no one.
A Highbrow Comedy That May Challenge Casual Viewers
If there’s one critique of The Residence, it’s that it is a lot to take in. The series does not spoon-feed its audience—it demands full attention to catch its layered humor, subtle callbacks, and intricate plot threads. While this makes for a deeply rewarding experience, it might be a bit overwhelming for casual viewers who aren’t expecting such a cerebral comedy.
The show’s writing is packed with rapid dialogue, witty asides, and references that fly by at breakneck speed, making it a dream for comedy aficionados but potentially alienating for those looking for a more straightforward watch. There are no filler moments—every scene is brimming with sharp exchanges and complex character interactions, which, while fantastic, can also make the show feel dense.
That being said, for those willing to engage with its rich storytelling and razor-sharp humor, The Residence is one of the most rewarding and original shows in recent memory.
A Must-Watch for Mystery Lovers and Political Drama Fans Alike
With its phenomenal performances, sharp writing, and dazzling production, The Residence is a standout addition to Netflix’s ever-growing lineup of prestige television. The series expertly combines the fun of classic murder mysteries with the political drama of shows like House of Cards and The West Wing, all while keeping things light, witty, and endlessly engaging.
While the political setting adds an extra layer of intrigue, The Residence never loses sight of its core strength: its wildly entertaining, impeccably crafted mystery. Whether you’re a fan of Agatha Christie-style whodunnits or modern crime thrillers, this show offers something fresh and exciting that will leave audiences eagerly awaiting each new twist and turn.
For activating my need to solve a mystery and inducing rapid deep chuckle laughter throughout every episode, I give my The Residence review an
8/10
The Residence premieres on Netflix on March 20, 2025.
About The Residence
Release Date: March 20, 2025
Episodes: 8 episodes x 1 hour
Creator/Showrunner/Writer/Executive Producer: Paul William Davies (Scandal, For the People)
Executive Producers: Shonda Rhimes and Betsy Beers
Inspired by the book The Residence: Inside the Private World of the White House by Kate Andersen Brower
Starring: Uzo Aduba, Giancarlo Esposito, Edwina Findley, Molly Griggs, Jason Lee, Ken Marino, Al Mitchell, Randall Park, Dan Perrault , Bronson Pinchot, Julieth Restrepo, Mel Rodriguez, Susan Kelechi Watson, Isiah Whitlock Jr., Mary Wiseman
Are you excited to see Uzo Aduba take on the role of Detective Cordelia Cupp? What are your favorite murder mystery series, and how do you think The Residence will compare? Do you enjoy whodunnits with a comedic edge, or do you prefer more serious thrillers? Let us know your thoughts on social media!
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