Introduction: A Coastal Mystery and Visual Delight
Netflix’s The Perfect Couple is more than just a captivating mystery drama — it’s a visual feast set against the stunning backdrop of the Massachusetts coast. Based on the bestselling novel by Elin Hilderbrand, this six-episode series perfectly creates a tale of intrigue and suspense, blending marvelous seaside beauty with a murder investigation that threatens to unravel the secrets of the wealthy Windbury family. The idyllic setting not only enhances the story but becomes a character in itself, shaping the narrative and creating an atmosphere that feels both beautiful and sinister.
Plot Overview: A Perfect Family in Peril
The central plot of The Perfect Couple revolves around the Windbury family, whose pristine image is shattered when a body is discovered on their historic estate, Summerland. What begins as a wedding celebration for the family quickly turns into a whodunit investigation, with every family member a potential suspect. Starring Nicole Kidman and Liev Schreiber, the series hooks viewers with its mix of luxury, family drama, and the ever-present threat of secrets being exposed.
But beyond the compelling storyline, the setting of the show deserves equal attention. The breathtaking locations and iconic seaside views add to the emotional depth of the series, making it a visual escape for the audience while maintaining the tension of a gripping mystery.
Where Was The Perfect Couple Filmed?
Nantucket: The Heart of the Novel
Elin Hilderbrand’s novel is set on the island of Nantucket, Massachusetts, a beloved vacation spot known for its stunning coastal views and charming small-town atmosphere. In the book, Nantucket plays a central role, offering the perfect setting for a summer wedding — until the murder flips the story upside down.
Reality vs. Fiction: Nantucket’s Limited Role in Filming
Despite the novel’s setting, the majority of the Netflix adaptation was not filmed on Nantucket. While fans of the book may have expected more of the island to feature prominently, the production team took some creative liberties with the filming locations. Instead, only a few key scenes were captured on Nantucket, providing just enough of the island’s charm to remain true to the spirit of the story.
Filming in Chatham: A Stunning Alternative
The bulk of The Perfect Couple was filmed in Chatham, Massachusetts, located at the tip of Cape Cod. Chatham, with its pristine beaches, grand homes, and exclusive seaside clubs, proved to be the perfect stand-in for Nantucket. Eastward Point, a private neighborhood in Chatham, provided a beautiful and stunning backdrop for many of the show’s key moments, capturing the glamorous and exclusivity of the Windbury family’s estate.
A Picture-Perfect Coastal Setting
Cinematography and Visual Storytelling
Cinematographers Shane Hurlbut and Roberto De Angeles brought the setting to life with their thoughtful and strategic use of light. In an interview, Hurlbut shared that the team deliberately chose to shoot the outdoor scenes during the day to contrast the dark and suspenseful elements of the storyline. The sun-drenched visuals of Chatham, with its blue skies and glistening ocean, create a striking closeness to the darker, more sinister undertones of the plot. The bright, airy scenery underscores the hidden darkness lurking within the seemingly perfect family.
The Role of Nantucket in the Show
Though only a few scenes were filmed on Nantucket, the location still plays a vital role in shaping the series’ visual identity. Aerial shots of the island, taken from a helicopter flying over a mile and a half away, capture the beauty and wealth associated with Nantucket. These sweeping shots allow viewers to take in the grandeur of the location, which serves as a fitting backdrop for the show’s themes of privilege and secrecy.
Notable Filming Locations
Eastward Point, Chatham
Chatham’s Eastward Point neighborhood became the setting for the Windbury family’s grand estate. The luxurious waterfront homes and private beaches perfectly encapsulate the wealth and status of the characters, providing the ideal location for a story steeped in family legacy and dark secrets.
Chatham Beach and Tennis Club
The Chatham Beach and Tennis Club, a historic establishment located near Lighthouse Beach, was used as a key location in the series. Its elegant, timeless charm added to the authentic coastal feel of the show and played an essential part in capturing the glamour of the Windbury family’s world.
Northport Plaza: A Transformation
For fans of The Perfect Couple, Northport Plaza in Chatham holds special significance. The once-humble location was transformed into the fictional Nantucket Police Department, complete with an interrogation room and a jail cell built specifically for the show. Although the set was temporary, the attention to detail helped create a believable and immersive world for the viewers.
Summerland: The Fictional Estate
The Windbury family’s estate, Summerland, may be a work of fiction, but the home featured in the show is very real. Filmed at a waterfront estate in Chatham, the house serves as the central location for much of the drama in The Perfect Couple. Showrunner Jenna Lamia revealed that they enhanced the real-life estate with blue hydrangeas to give it the perfect coastal vibe.
Why Does Elin Hilderbrand Love Nantucket?:
Elin Hilderbrand’s love for Nantucket shines through in her novels. For over two decades, she has written nearly 30 books set on the island, drawing inspiration from her own experiences there. Hilderbrand began vacationing on Nantucket in her youth and later decided to make the island her permanent home. This deep connection to Nantucket is reflected in her work, as the island’s charm, beauty, and unique culture are woven into the fabric of her stories.
Is Summerland Based on a Real Place?
While Summerland itself is not a real estate, it is symbolic of the grand, historic homes that dot the coastline of Massachusetts. Hilderbrand’s deep understanding of the region allows her to craft fictional locations that feel authentic, blending elements of real-life properties into her fictional world.
The Visual Impact of Coastal New England:
The setting of The Perfect Couple is more than just a backdrop — it amplifies the themes of wealth, secrecy, and deception that run through the narrative. Coastal New England, with its mix of natural beauty and old-world charm, is the perfect stage for a story where appearances can be deceiving.
Conclusion: A Perfect Blend of Mystery and Scenery
The Perfect Couple offers viewers a thrilling mystery wrapped in a stunning coastal setting. The combination of rich, sun-drenched visuals with a tense, unfolding investigation creates a unique viewing experience that captivates both the eyes and the mind. While the story keeps audiences guessing, the beautiful locations remind us that even in paradise, dark secrets can lurk just beneath the surface.
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