SPOILER ALERT

Major spoilers ahead for “The Residence,” now streaming on Netflix.

Setting the Scene

As the creator of Netflix's new murder mystery series “The Residence,” Paul William Davies initially had a clear vision for the story. From the outset, he knew who the killer and the victim would be in this uniquely crafted whodunit inspired by Kate Andersen Brower’s intriguing book, “The Residence: Inside the Private World of the White House.”

The Murder Mystery Unfolds

Set against the glamorous backdrop of a state dinner at the White House, the plot follows the murder of Chief Usher A.B. Wynter, portrayed grippingly by Giancarlo Esposito, who took over the role after the untimely passing of Andre Braugher. Detective Cordelia Cupp, played by Uzo Aduba, leads a frenetic investigation, interviewing over 150 suspects to unravel the mystery of A.B.’s death.

A Shocking Revelation

The plot thickens when it is revealed that Lilly Schumacher, the affluent social secretary, committed the murder after a confrontation with A.B., who threatened to expose her illicit activities. The tension between Lilly and A.B. sets the stage for a dramatic climax that sees her resorting to poison and ultimately physical violence to secure her secrets.

Bold Narrative Choices

Davies, who previously worked on groundbreaking shows like “Scandal,” took several bold steps in crafting this narrative. He explained how Cordelia became the linchpin of the story, shifting from a peripheral character to the heart of the mystery. Uzo Aduba's magnetic performance helped shape Cordelia into an unforgettable detective, distinct in her quirks, including an unexpected passion for birdwatching.

An Ensemble of Suspects

The intricate web of suspects was purposefully designed, drawing inspiration from classic murder mysteries that feature a large ensemble cast, reminiscent of iconic films like “Murder on the Orient Express” and Rian Johnson’s modern hit “Knives Out.” Davies embraced the complexity of characters, as each episode deepens viewers’ intrigue when they encounter the tangled relationships among the White House staff.

Overcoming Loss

One of the most poignant challenges during production was the unexpected loss of Andre Braugher. Davies recast the role with Esposito, who brought a different dimension to the character while honoring Braugher’s legacy. The emotional impact on the cast and crew was profound, and the collaborative spirit was evident as they navigated the production's sensitive circumstances.

Future Possibilities

Davies also hinted at future possibilities for the show. Given the title “The Residence,” he has envisioned new settings and mysteries that could unfold in various iconic homes across the globe, paving the way for fascinating narrative opportunities in a second season. The blend of familiar storytelling structures with fresh cultural contexts could provide a thrilling adventure for viewers.

The Power of Cameos

Looking ahead, Davies reflects on the effectiveness of utilizing cameos, with Kylie Minogue and Al Franken adding their star power to the show. Although scheduling conflicts kept other big name actors, such as Hugh Jackman, from appearing on screen, the humor stemming from their absence served to enrich the narrative's charm.

Conclusion

In an era filled with crime dramas, “The Residence” stands out with its clever writing, deep character development, and engaging storyline that lures audiences into a world where the stakes are as high as the political tensions of the White House.

Stay tuned, as this chaotic journey through politics and murder may just be the beginning of the world's most compelling detective saga!