From classics like Psycho and The Manchurian Candidate to comedies like The Waterboy and dramas like Momma’s Man, the archetype of the momma’s boy has long been a fixture in film and television. In Prime Video’s The Girlfriend, Daniel Sanderson (played by Laurie Davidson of Mary & George) epitomizes this trope. He is the medical student son of the stylish art gallery owner Laura, portrayed by Robin Wright. Their relationship is so intimate that their playful tussle in their luxurious London home’s indoor pool might initially be misinterpreted as romantic. However, their seemingly idyllic life begins to unravel with the entrance of Cherry, a new and unsettling influence.

Cherry Laine, played by Olivia Cooke, is Daniel’s latest romantic interest, and Laura is far from impressed. She finds fault with Cherry’s suggestive name, her revealing red dress, and the overly familiar way she behaves around Daniel at the dinner table. Despite Laura’s attempts to connect with Cherry, she’s left with more doubts than before. Questions arise about Cherry’s education, her knowledge of art, and even her intentions, as small incidents like a missing gold bracelet and the family cat being let out suggest something more duplicitous at play. What is Cherry really concealing?

The series, which spans six episodes, cleverly splits each installment into two parts—one from Laura’s perspective and the other from Cherry’s. This dual narrative reveals that Cherry’s provocative red dress was beyond her means and still had its price tag, leading to panic when Laura accidentally stains it with coffee. While Laura’s lifestyle exudes affluence and meticulousness, from her minimalist fashion to the family’s vacation home in Spain, Cherry’s background is marked by struggle and aspiration.

Adapted from Michelle Francis’ 2017 novel, the series faithfully explores these divergent perspectives, highlighting how personal biases and emotional reactions can alter perceptions of the same events. This exploration is particularly evident in the nuanced performances of the leads, with Wright and Cooke deftly navigating their roles as both protagonist and antagonist, depending on the viewpoint presented. Wright also serves as an executive producer and director for several episodes, alongside director Andrea Harkin.

Where The Girlfriend truly excels is in its portrayal of ambiguity. Is Laura’s overprotectiveness a reasonable reaction to past tragedy, or is it veering into paranoia? Is Cherry’s behavior simply a result of her insecurity, or is there a more sinister motive? The series occasionally risks predictability, but its exploration of complex themes like perspective and prejudice keeps it engaging. Additionally, the soundtrack, reminiscent of The White Lotus and Big Little Lies, enhances the unsettling atmosphere.

While Wright and Cooke deliver compelling performances, other cast members, including Waleed Zuaiter as Howard, have less to work with. Daniel, despite Laurie Davidson’s charm, is somewhat underdeveloped and naively unaware, making the intense rivalry between Laura and Cherry over him seem implausible at times.

Despite some narrative shortcomings, the series maintains a brisk pace and offers intriguing insights into human relationships and the destructive potential of misperceptions. The interpersonal drama between Cherry and Laura alone makes The Girlfriend worth watching.

The Girlfriend debuts September 10 on Prime Video.