Expats: A Gripping and Raw Prime Video Series Explores the Lives of American Women in Hong Kong
In the captivating and unsettling Prime Video limited series “Expats,” creator-writer-director LuLu Wang delves into the lives of three American women living in Hong Kong. Their stories are transformed into something raw and twisted, forcing them to confront their imperfections head-on. Drawing inspiration from Janice Y.K. Lee’s novel “The Expatriates,” Wang explores themes of grief and pain, presenting a poignant and sorrowful examination of compassion and forgiveness.
The series takes viewers on a haunting journey over the course of a year. The first two episodes provide an intimate look into the lives of these women. Margaret, portrayed brilliantly by Nicole Kidman, finds herself unrecognizable after relocating from New York City to Hong Kong’s affluent Mid-Levels area with her husband and children. The move has shattered her career as a landscape architect, leaving her longing for something more. Margaret spends her days tending to her children while battling envy towards her live-in helper, Essie. However, a tragic accident alters the course of Margaret’s life, leading her to abandon any pretense of perfection and instead embrace her heartache through outbursts, long baths, and fantasies of escape.
Meanwhile, Margaret’s friend and neighbor Hilary, played by Sarayu Blue, struggles to maintain the facade of her marriage. Hilary and her husband David lead a seemingly perfect child-free life, meticulously maintained by their helper, Puri. However, tragedy strikes Margaret’s household, inadvertently unraveling Hilary’s carefully curated existence.
In the Central district of Hong Kong, 24-year-old Mercy, portrayed by Ji-young Yoo, is trying to find her way. Despite her prestigious degree from Columbia University, Mercy, a Korean American, has moved to China for a fresh start away from her overbearing mother. Armed with a self-pitying attitude, Mercy navigates life by relying on her wealthy friends and catering gigs. However, a fateful decision propels her into the lives of Margaret and Hilary, forcing her to confront the consequences of her actions.
“Expats” challenges societal expectations placed on women to hold everything together. In this series, Wang assembles an all-women writers’ room, allowing Margaret, Hilary, and Mercy to shed their illusions and expose the ugly and unsavory aspects of their lives. Nicole Kidman’s portrayal of Margaret is particularly captivating as she refuses to pretend that she is okay despite the heartbreak she endures.
Wang also delves into the themes of class and privilege, showcasing lesser-known areas of Hong Kong, from night markets to luxurious hotels. The backdrop of the 2014 pro-democracy uprisings adds depth to the narrative. The fifth episode, “Central,” focuses on Puri, Essie, and Mercy as they navigate between two worlds. While Margaret and Hilary’s lives unravel in their luxury condo building, their Filipina helpers move through both the opulent space and the world below, where political unrest simmers. The secrets shared among them have the power to destroy the families they serve.
The series explores how social status can offer protection but also leave women vulnerable. All three main characters learn this lesson in different ways. Mercy discovers that some mistakes are irreparable, Hilary must let go of the lies she has told herself to embrace a new beginning, and Margaret must choose to move forward or risk losing herself and her family forever.
“Expats” is a deeply nuanced and dark narrative that uncovers the hidden truths women often bury. It highlights the importance of truly knowing someone and emphasizes that sometimes, choosing oneself over others may be the only path to salvation.
The first two episodes of “Expats” will premiere on January 26th on Prime Video, with new episodes releasing weekly on Fridays.