In the world of television, the allure of a good thriller often lies in its glossy presentations and layered storytelling. Jessica Biel’s latest offering, The Better Sister, is no exception. Based on Alafair Burke’s novel, this series plunges into the murky waters of intrigue and familial betrayal, initiating viewers with a tantalizing premise: a murder that unveils a cascade of secrets and lies.
The narrative kicks off with the shocking discovery of a dead body—lawyer Adam Macintosh, portrayed skillfully by Corey Stoll. At the center of this storm is Chloe Taylor, played by Biel, a high-powered editor of a women’s magazine, who seemingly embodies success and perfection. But behind her polished exterior, the questions soon proliferate: Who murdered Adam and why should we, as viewers, invest our emotional resources into untangling this web of deceit?
The Better Sister doesn’t shy away from exploiting our innate curiosity about crime and morality. Chloe is the first potential suspect. Returning from a dinner party, she stumbles upon her husband lifeless on the floor, blood pooling around him. Here, the obvious question arises—why does she pick up what appears to be the murder weapon, a penknife, and take it with her? This act alone forms a significant part of the intrigue, setting the stage for what’s to come.
Further complicating the plot is Chloe’s son, Ethan, who quickly becomes a prime suspect, thanks to unconvincing alibis and DNA evidence that ties him to the scene. As detectives stitch together the narrative, their probing eyes focus not only on the family but also on the shadowy characters surrounding Adam—friends, colleagues, and acquaintances that seem to embody the darker facets of his life. One can’t help but feel that Adam’s murky dealings in his professional life were bound to have repercussions, and this is where the real drama unfolds.
Another layer to the story is introduced in the form of Chloe’s estranged sister, Nicky, played by Elizabeth Banks. Nicky, Adam’s first wife and Ethan’s biological mother, adds another dimension to the plot. Having struggled with addiction and neglect, her return to Ethan’s life introduces a cocktail of emotions. The tension is palpable, as Chloe and Nicky transition from civil conversations to sharp, sarcastic jabs. These interactions do more than reveal family dynamics; they illustrate how trauma shapes relationships, adding depth to the otherwise glossy façade of wealth and success.
While some scenes deliver a comedic tone, reminiscent of shows such as Mare of Easttown, the humor in The Better Sister tends to wane at times. For every laugh, there is an underlying sorrow that looms over the characters—the juxtaposition of their vibrant lives against the backdrop of tragedy. As Chloe quips about the awkwardness of her acquaintances and the absence of a “murdered husband sad face emoji,” we are reminded that even amidst chaos, there is room for existential humor.
Despite its shortcomings, The Better Sister effectively weaves a narrative filled with red herrings and cliffhangers. The unfolding drama isn’t merely about uncovering who killed Adam; it’s about the unraveling of the lives that seem effortlessly glamorous. The series capitalizes on the concept known as “schadenfreude”—the joy derived from witnessing the misfortunes of others. In many ways, it reflects a contemporary obsession with the fall of the privileged. This is a genre that has become increasingly popular, particularly in the streaming age, where the affluence of characters often belies the turmoil lurking beneath the surface.
The show’s stylish execution is undeniably captivating—the homes, the outfits, the backgrounds flooded with grandeur serve as a visual feast. It is a reminder that the façade can be just as alluring as the story beneath it. While the viewer witnesses the downfall of these seemingly perfect lives, it also compels them to reflect on their own situations. The encounters between characters are riddled with tension, rivalry, and unresolved history—much like real-life relationships often prove to be.
Although some might argue that The Better Sister offers a hollow experience—focusing more on the wealth of its characters rather than delivering profound insights—there’s still a universal appeal in witnessing how power struggles and emotional turmoil play out on screen. As one of the police officers bluntly states, “No one likes watching a wealthy woman fall more than I do”—the irony layered within this statement adds gravity to the entire premise.
In conclusion, The Better Sister is a multifaceted thriller that doesn’t shy away from the darkness lurking behind affluence. It explores themes of betrayal, familial bonds, and moral ambiguity while sustaining a consistent level of suspense. Stunning visuals coupled with engaging plot twists make it a noteworthy addition to the genre. Whether viewers tune in for the stunning interiors or the tangled mess of human relationships, the series promises a captivating exploration of what lies beneath a picture-perfect life. Ultimately, it’s a reflection on the complex human experience—of success, failure, and everything in between.
