'Expats' Episode 1 Takeaway: Nicole Kidman's Margaret tries to navigate her life through an unspoken tragedy
Spoilers for 'Expats' on Prime Video
HONG KONG, CHINA: Amazon's new production, 'Expats,' is based on the 2016 novel 'The Expatriates' by Janice YK Lee. The series is set against the backdrop of Hong Kong, where a bunch of expats navigate their lives through the complexities of being outsiders.
The first episode of the series pretty well outlines the impact of an unsaid tragedy on Margaret's (Nicole Kidman) life. Although there were some hints thrown around the episode establishing that the tragedy has something to do with Margaret's son's disappearance.
Margaret expresses her intention to stay in Hong Kong
The first episode of 'Expat' introduces us to Margaret, a former landscape architect who now resides on Hong Kong's upper side with her family.
In an attempt to cheer herself up following a recent tragedy, Margaret plans for her husband Clarke's (Brian Tee) 50th birthday celebration.
As the story progresses, it becomes clear that an unspoken tragedy has left Margaret in a state of emotional chaos, and she is seen coping with inner trauma while maintaining a sense of normalcy in front of the others.
Despite being overburdened with emotions, Margaret is happy with her supportive husband and son Philip (Bodhi del Rosario), but she wishes to have a positive relationship with her unruly teenage daughter Daisy (Tiana Gowen).
When Margaret's stereotypical Asian mother-in-law criticizes the party menu and questions her about moving back to America, she firmly says she won't be doing so, indicating that she is confident enough to navigate the turbulent waves of grief and sadness.
Exhausted Margaret reveals to Hilary Starr that she wants to live for herself
Margaret is shocked to spot Mercy (Ji-young Yoo) among one of the servers and pursues her. Not wanting to get caught, Mercy runs away in panic mode.
Margaret confides in Clarke about spotting Mercy, but when Clarke dispels her doubts, she creates a scene at the party, giving her gossipmongers more fodder to gossip about.
Witnessing the chaos and noticing Margaret's distressed state, Hillary Starr (Sarayu Blue), a longtime friend, extends a supportive hand, guiding her to a quiet space for a much-needed respite from the clutches of tragedy.
In an honest conversation with Hillary, Margaret expresses her desire to distance herself from familial responsibilities and embrace a life true to herself. She reveals feeling overwhelmed by the various roles she plays as a mother, wife, and daughter-in-law.
Well, only time can tell how Margaret is going to navigate these feelings!
'Expats' is now streaming on Prime Video.