What those black ribbons in 'A Good Girl's Guide to Murder' really mean—and how they set up Season 2

Pippa's investigative skills are put to test as she tracks down the elusive calamity party in 'A Good Girl's Guide to Murder'
PUBLISHED AUG 20, 2024
Mysterious black ribbons add suspense to Netflix's 'A Good Girl's Guide To Murder' (@netflix)
Mysterious black ribbons add suspense to Netflix's 'A Good Girl's Guide To Murder' (@netflix)

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Netflix's 'A Good Girl's Guide To Murder' brings Holly Jackson's thrilling mystery to life, following Pippa Fitz-Amobi as she delves into the unsolved death of Andie Bell. While the show stays true to the novel's gripping narrative, it introduces intriguing new elements that set it apart from its source material.

Among these changes is the introduction of mysterious black ribbons, a significant addition that adds layers of suspense and symbolism. As Pippa and her friends navigate the complexities of a high-stakes party, the presence of these black ribbons hints at deeper secrets and potential twists. 

The black ribbons reveal the secret locations in 'A Good Girl's Guide To Murder'

Anna Maxwell Martin as Leanne Amobi in 'A Good Girl's Guide to Murder' (@netflix)
Anna Maxwell Martin as Leanne Amobi in 'A Good Girl's Guide to Murder' (@netflix)

In 'A Good Girl's Guide To Murder' Season 1, Episode 3, Pippa Fitz-Amobi and her friends, Cara and Lauren, face a major shift from the book as they seek invitations to the elusive calamity party. Unlike the novel, where a friend’s connection provides access, the show introduces black ribbons as a key element.

Pippa and her friends use social media to decode these ribbons, discovering they reveal the party’s secret location. Pippa’s ingenuity shines when she tricks a popular student into helping her access crucial Instagram messages.

This subplot not only showcases Pippa’s resourcefulness but also effectively extends the episode's length, adding depth to her investigative prowess. Author Holly Jackson praised this creative choice, which enhances the story’s suspenseful edge.

The black ribbons symbolize the mourning over Andie & Sal's deaths

From Ravi Singh to Pip, here's a breakdown of the best characters in 'A Good Girl's Guide to Murder' (@netflix)
A still from the show 'A Good Girl's Guide to Murder' (@netflix)

In 'A Good Girl's Guide To Murder', the black ribbons serve as a poignant symbol of mourning and grief, mirroring the show's themes surrounding Andie and Sal's tragic deaths.

Unlike the book, the series deepens the emotional impact by portraying Andie and Sal’s relationship as genuine and affectionate, intensifying the sorrow surrounding their fates.

The black ribbons, often associated with mourning, underscore the town's collective grief and the dark atmosphere of the calamity parties.

These gatherings, fraught with violence and substance abuse, are further illuminated by the ribbons, foreshadowing the peril Pippa faces.

This symbolism enriches the narrative, connecting Pippa's journey to the broader themes of loss and danger.

'A Good Girl's Guide to Murder' is available for streaming on Netflix 

GET THE BIGGEST ENTERTAINMENT STORIES
STRAIGHT TO YOUR INBOX.

MORE STORIES

A wildly popular dragon series announced in 2021 is inching toward the screen, and its success could change fantasy TV’s future.
2 hours ago
The finale of ‘The Night Manager’ Season 2 is close, the tension is high, and the ending may not be as final, and we have an update on the new season.
4 hours ago
The series, a sequel to 'Young Sheldon' has officially been renewed for season 3
1 day ago
Fortnite released its first teaser ahead of the confirmed and official collaboration with the hit series
1 day ago
Kayce Dutton’s quiet ending doesn’t last as loss, danger, and unfinished business pull him back into Montana’s darkest corners.
2 days ago
A fan-favorite makes a surprise return to Grey Sloan, pulling Amelia back into the action as medical tensions rise fast.
2 days ago
Created by Stan Lee, Jack Kirby, and Don Heck, the eight-episode series is scheduled to premiere on Tuesday, January 27.
3 days ago
'Finding Her Edge' Season 1 ends on a cliffhanger, with fans awaiting a second season, and here's everything we know about it.
3 days ago
Hunter Doohan teases an earlier production start for ‘Wednesday’ Season 3, hinting the Netflix hit could return sooner than expected
3 days ago
Based on the 1989 show, 'Matlock' follows the sharp and seasoned lawyer Madeline Matlock, who joins a law firm with a secret motive
3 days ago