Set against the backdrop of 2014 Hong Kong, the first two episodes of Expats introduces us to three women: Margaret (Nicole Kidman), Hilary (Sarayu Blue), and Mercy (Ji-young Yoo). Their individual stories intertwine in the aftermath of a sudden family tragedy.
Director Lulu Wang, who left a lasting impression with her previous film, (the poignant family drama The Farewell) continues to exhibit her refined artistic sensibilities here. Drawing inspiration from Janice Y.K. Lee's novel The Expatriates, Wang's mastery of technical skill, keen eye for detail, and captivating aesthetic are once again evident.
Margaret finds herself grappling with the preparations for her husband Clarke's upcoming 50th birthday party. Despite seeking assistance from an agency and meeting to finalize details like the guest list and catering, Margaret is struggling with the planning process. A mother of two, Philippe and Daisy, Margaret is struck by a moment of detachment from her current life when she comes across a drawing by Philippe depicting Gus, her child who went missing a year ago. Philippe also includes a drawing of a man he identifies as Jesus, leaving Margaret puzzled as their family isn't religiously inclined.
Whispers trail Margaret at the party, with friends making remarks suggesting that if they experienced anything "like that," they might consider suicide. Clarke (Brian Tee), Margaret's husband, expresses gratitude to friends for attending amidst the challenging period, concluding his speech with a heartfelt acknowledgment to Gus, emphasizing their longing for him wherever he may be. Even Hilary's husband, David (Jack Huston), faces pointed accusations, with Hilary insinuating that the outcome that night could have been different had he not been drinking.
Episode 1 flawlessly captures a captivating rhythm, skillfully blending well-paced storytelling, compelling performances, and artful cinematography. The narrative is elevated by the intricate web of writing, crafting characters with profound depth. The writing deftly navigates the nuanced textures of melancholy, tragedy, and a lingering sense of disenchantment, weaving these elements seamlessly into the lives of the three female protagonists.
In Episode 2 of Expats, the narrative takes a deliberate shift into the past, unfolding approximately a year prior to the events depicted in the opening episode. The episode centers around Mercy and Margaret's initial encounter at a yacht party. During this event, Gus momentarily separates from his mother, entertaining the dangerous idea of jumping overboard. Mercy skillfully intervenes, impressing Margaret, who catches up to the unfolding situation. Concurrently, the episode also delves into the backstory of David and Hilary Starr.
Their union was founded on the agreement not to have children, but David experiences a change of heart, a sentiment not reciprocated by Hilary. This fundamental difference in their desires creates an ongoing friction between the couple, a conflict that remains unresolved even in the present timeline. This is further complicated by David's affair with Mercy.
Mercy had extended an offer to Margaret, volunteering her babysitting services whenever the opportunity arose. Later in the city, Margaret accepts the offer and invites Mercy to join her and the kids for lunch. On this particular day, David breaks his year-long sobriety, an event that transpires in the bustling night market.
As Margaret, Mercy, and the kids embark on a leisurely stroll, Daisy engages Margaret in some casual shopping, while Mercy kindly volunteers to supervise the boys. Philippe, being old enough, remains close, but Gus, unaware, seizes a moment when Mercy momentarily checks her phone to slip away into the crowd. Sadly, Gus remains unaccounted for, and is never found.
The episode concludes on a heart-wrenching note with Margaret standing in the market, gazing longingly, haunted by the regret of letting go of Gus' hand.
This visual elements contribute to the atmospheric storytelling, another standout element in Episode 2. The narrative allows ample time for the central characters to gradually unfold and become familiar to the audience. Their connections and intimacy stand in stark contrast to the dynamics observed in the opening episode. The first two episodes has set up the story well, leaving viewers eagerly anticipating what unfolds next.
