What is the best thing about Imperfect Women? The cut of Eleanor’s (Kerry Washington) trousers, of course. Actually, all her clothes and accessories are marvellous. As a psychological thriller, this series does not shock or stun, but the visuals are truly glorious.
Everyone lives in wonderful, well-lit houses, dresses beautifully, is perfectly groomed, and eats splendid meals off eye-wateringly lovely crockery. Lifestyle noir shines at its seductive best in this story of three women whose lives and friendship are torn apart by a death.
The Plot
| Character | Actor | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Eleanor | Kerry Washington | Best friend; has a crush on Robert |
| Mary | Elisabeth Moss | Mother and homemaker |
| Nancy | Kate Mara | The victim; married to Robert |
| Robert | Joel Kinnaman | Nancy’s husband from a rich family |
| Detective Bethany Ganz | Ana Ortiz | Investigating Nancy’s death |
After the three attend Mary’s birthday dinner, Eleanor is brought in for questioning as Nancy is found dead under suspicious circumstances. Nancy is married to Robert from the rich and powerful Hennessey family, who go into aggressive damage control mode.
What Works
| Aspect | Verdict |
|---|---|
| Visuals | Glorious, well-lit houses, beautiful styling |
| Performances | Washington, Moss, and Kinnaman dazzle |
| Atmosphere | Lifestyle noir at its seductive best |
| Production Design | Wonderful houses, eye-wateringly lovely crockery |
The show moves back and forth in time to tell the story from different perspectives. There is something undeniably watchable about this elegantly shod show about classy people doing full-on rubbish things—all while looking perfect in unforgiving, glossy hair and make-up.
What Doesn’t Work
| Aspect | Critique |
|---|---|
| Predictability | Does not shock or stun; the mystery is easily guessed |
| Final Episode | Feels unnecessary; no major twist or new revelation |
| Pacing | The extra episode leaves you disappointed |
The final episode, which arrives after the murderer is unmasked, seems unnecessary. You keep wondering if the extra episode is going to unveil a totally new killer, and then you are disappointed when no such thing is revealed.
The Performances
- Kerry Washington: Dazzles as Eleanor, the best friend with a complicated past
- Elisabeth Moss: Brings her signature intensity to Mary, the stressed homemaker
- Joel Kinnaman: Compelling as the husband from a powerful family
- Kate Mara: Effective as the victim whose past holds secrets
- Corey Stoll: Solid as Mary’s mild-mannered husband
- Leslie Odom Jr.: Charming as Eleanor’s teasing but caring brother
The Verdict
There is nothing wrong at all with the lovely-looking, elegantly shod show. All is forgiven, however, as they do criminal acts in unforgiving, glossy hair and make-up.
If you’re looking for a visually stunning, character-driven mystery with strong performances, Imperfect Women delivers. Just don’t expect to be shocked by the reveal.
