‘The Girlfriend’: a psychological thriller unpacking mother-son dynamics and dark secrets

Does a mother always know what’s best for her son, or is she just refusing to allow another woman in his life?

This has been the premise of many Hollywood productions, including the acclaimed 2005 hit “Monster-in-Law”.

Several other television shows and films have also explored the complex dynamics between a mother and her son’s partner.

“The Girlfriend”, the brand-new series on Amazon Prime Video, is the latest intoxicating production which had me glued to my screen.

With its excellent casting and unexpected twists and turns, this psychological thriller will keep you enthralled.

And while there are many comedies around the tumultuous challenges which emerge when two families converge, what elevates this six-part show is that it takes a more serious look at the extraordinary lengths loved ones will go to keep control over their families.

And in “The Girlfriend”, there are many – from elaborate smear campaigns, sickening lies and even criminal activities.

With its universal themes of love, greed and power, it has also been resonating with streamers far and wide, causing a stir on social media as users unpack the dark thriller.

The miniseries, directed by Robin Wright and Andrea Harkin, is based on Michelle Frances’ novel of the same name.

It centres around Laura Sanderson (Wright), who immediately grows suspicious of her son Daniel’s (Laurie Davidson) new girlfriend Cherry Laine (Olivia Cooke).

As the wife of a billionaire property mogul and the owner of several prominent art galleries in London, this introduction to her family rocks her picture-perfect facade.

Because of her middle-class and tumultuous upbringing, Cherry does not come from Laura’s world of luxury.

The Sandersons’ opulent lifestyle of jetting off to exotic locations, attending high-society events and enjoying fine dining on rooftops are completely foreign to this young real estate agent who had to work hard for everything she has.

But this hustle also gave her a thick skin and the ambition to succeed so when she is invited by Daniel – her new successful doctor beau – to his family home for dinner, she is nervous but ready.

Cherry dresses the part, stealing the show in a sexy red silk dress and immediately finds herself jokingly defending herself when she walks in and overhears Laura telling those gathered that with a name like Cherry, she must be moonlighting as a stripper.

The evening doesn’t get any better from there, with some sinister antics setting the scene for this chilly first encounter between Daniel’s new girlfriend and his mother, who is so obsessed with him that there are jokes about him still being breastfed.

Laura insists that Cherry is a liar, a social climber and a gold digger, and Cherry believes that Laura is obsessed with her son and wants to control his life. 

An example is when Cherry tells Daniel to follow his own dreams and not be a people pleaser. Following the awkward meeting, Laura tells Daniel of her disdain for Cherry, but the lovestruck youngster, for the first time in his life, disagrees with his beloved mother.

Instead, he invites Cherry on the Sandersons’ annual vacation to Spain.

Fearful of losing her son, Laura agrees, but she also starts to secretly unravel Cherry’s secrets.

Cherry also does everything she can to provoke Laura, convincing Daniel to spend time alone with her instead of enjoying the festivities with his family.

Laura and Cherry momentarily bond but this is short lived and not before long, they are at it again.

Matters escalate when they return to London and a mishap which sees Cherry accidentally endanger Daniel’s life sees Laura take extraordinary measures to remove her from his life.

What ensues is a toxic and dangerous tug of war for Daniel’s exclusive control, love and affection, who also faces the traumatic circumstances of their actions.

If you are a fan of a spicy thriller, “The Girlfriend” is some seriously addictive viewing. Apart from the impeccable storyline which will constantly keep you guessing, I loved that the story is told through Laura and Cherry’s perspective, adding yet another layer of excitement.

By seeing the same scenes and conversations from their different points of view, this allows viewers to draw their own conclusions.

I also thoroughly enjoyed the stellar performances from the leading ladies.

The chemistry between Wright and Cooke is electrifying in the worst ways possible and they brilliantly play their roles with intensity.

There are also some fine fashion moments in “The Girlfriend”, including Laura’s immaculate take on quiet luxury as well as the playful use of Cherry red for the namesake character,who, as you might expect, has luscious cherry red hair as well.

The show’s intelligent use of music to evoke emotion as well as scenes in scenic locations such as London and Spain, are also audio and visual treats.

It’s audacious, risqué and will have you reeling for more.

I give “The Girlfriend” a 4 out of five stars.