The murder mystery genre has undeniably made a significant comeback, or perhaps it never truly faded away. This resurgence is even humorously acknowledged in a scene from Netflix’s new series The Residence, produced in collaboration with Shondaland and created by Paul William Davies (known for For The People and Scandal). However, simply recognizing the popularity of murder mysteries is not enough; to distinguish itself in a crowded market that features an array of captivating stories, a series must introduce innovative concepts and deliver unexpected twists to keep audiences engaged and eager for more.

Although The Residence may experience a slow start in its initial episode, which begins with the shocking murder of a veteran White House employee, the narrative quickly accelerates once Detective Cordelia Cupp (Uzo Aduba) is introduced. With her arrival, viewers are thrust into a dynamic story filled with a multitude of characters and plotlines, making it essential to pay close attention. Fortunately, Cupp’s focused and methodical investigation ensures that she will unravel the truth, even if her methods are unconventional and surprising.

Discover the Intriguing Plot of ‘The Residence’

On this fateful evening, the White House is bustling with activity as President Perry Morgan (Paul Fitzgerald) and First Gentleman Elliot Morgan (Barrett Foa) host an extravagant state dinner. However, the black-tie affair takes a dark turn when the lifeless body of chief usher A.B. Wynter (Giancarlo Esposito) is unearthed by none other than the President’s mother-in-law, Nan Cox (Jane Curtin). In the midst of chaos, senior White House advisors scramble to contain the scandal, while Metropolitan Police Chief Larry Dokes (Isiah Whitlock Jr.) calls upon his top investigator, Detective Cordelia Cupp (Aduba), to uncover whether Wynter’s tragic death was a suicide or the result of foul play. Partnered with FBI Agent Edwin Park (Randall Park), who remains skeptical of her investigative techniques, Cupp must navigate through a staggering 157 potential suspects connected to the White House.

Detective Cupp’s distinctive crime-solving style, which we gradually learn about, is deeply influenced by her passion for birding. This unique hobby has honed her observational skills, allowing her to notice even the most minute details that others might overlook. Furthermore, her patience, developed through countless hours spent waiting for elusive birds, translates into her investigative approach. Throughout the season (with the first seven episodes available for review), Cupp often emphasizes her ability to remain calm during interrogations, contrasting her composed demeanor with the nervousness of potential suspects. This tactic frequently leads to the revelation of hidden truths that suspects have attempted to conceal. As Cupp delves deeper into the investigation, we gain a richer understanding of the complexities involved in managing a high-stakes environment like the White House, as well as the reasons someone may have held a grudge against A.B. Wynter.

The narrative also unfolds into the future, revealing the aftermath of the murder investigation. During a Senate committee hearing focused on White House security, key figures, including Park and other witnesses, recount the events of that fateful night to concerned senators (played by notable actors like Al Franken and the scene-stealing Eliza Coupe). The inquiry raises critical questions about whether certain pieces of evidence warrant the reopening of the case. Amidst the ensuing media frenzy, the absence of Detective Cordelia Cupp becomes a significant point of intrigue.

Exceptional Performances by Uzo Aduba and Giancarlo Esposito in ‘The Residence’

The effectiveness of a murder mystery often hinges on the performance of its lead investigator. While the archetype of a quirky crime-solver, reminiscent of <em>Knives Out</em>‘s Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig), can sometimes feel clichéd, Uzo Aduba’s portrayal of Cordelia Cupp captivates viewers and keeps them glued to the screen. Her sharp wit, impeccable comedic timing, and serene demeanor, combined with moments of vulnerability, create a character that, in less skilled hands, could easily come off as gimmicky. Having gained prominence through her role in Orange Is the New Black, Aduba has firmly established her capability to lead her own series, and The Residence serves as an excellent platform for her to shine and showcase her remarkable talents.

While Aduba’s Cordelia Cupp serves as a cornerstone of The Residence, Giancarlo Esposito’s role as A.B. Wynter provides a solid foundation for the storyline. The series often feels more like a character exploration than a straightforward murder mystery, as Esposito (who took over the role from the late Andre Braugher) anchors the narrative’s core. Even though Wynter is the murder victim, we experience his character through a series of flashbacks, triggered by various characters recounting that fateful night. Notably, differing perspectives on the events challenge the reliability of memory, placing additional responsibility on Esposito to portray Wynter both as he truly was and as others perceive him, especially in the critical moments leading up to his demise.

The diverse ensemble cast in The Residence enriches the narrative, adding depth and vibrancy to the show’s world, which primarily unfolds within the White House’s walls and its grounds during the initial episodes. The multitude of characters, whether briefly or frequently appearing, contributes to a lively, chaotic atmosphere that rewards careful viewing, as significant clues can easily be missed. This series demands your full attention; multitasking while watching could leave you confused about the plot. Although The Residence leans more towards comedy, it also offers poignant moments, such as Jason Lee’s heartfelt monologue about sibling rivalry and the unexpected dynamic between Mel Rodriguez (Better Call Saul) and Julieth Restrepo (Griselda), which forms the emotional core of the series.

The blend of tender moments and the stellar performances from Aduba, Park, Whitlock Jr., Coupe, Ken Marino, Edwina Findley, Bronson Pinchot, Mary Wiseman, Brett Tucker, and many more make The Residence a bold and exciting addition to the murder mystery genre in the streaming landscape. While the resolution of this particular case remains uncertain, given that the finale was not made available to reviewers, by the penultimate episode, it’s clear that Detective Cordelia Cupp possesses every tool necessary to uncover the truth and bring the killer to justice.

The Residence is currently available for streaming on Netflix.