Reel Review Mom

Every so often, a new series comes along that grips you from the very first episode, and The Girlfriend on Amazon Prime is one of those rare gems. Starring the always-brilliant Robin Wright, this psychological thriller is a dark, twisty exploration of love, obsession, and family dynamics that will have you questioning everything you see on screen.

Based on Michelle Frances’s novel, The Girlfriend follows Laura Sanderson (Wright), whose carefully curated life begins to unravel when her son Daniel introduces his new girlfriend, Cherry (Olivia Cooke). At first glance, Cherry seems charming and sweet, but Laura quickly suspects something is off. Is Cherry really the loving partner Daniel believes her to be, or is she hiding sinister motives? That’s the hook — and the show keeps tightening the tension with each scene.

After just two episodes, I’m completely locked in – hooked. The storytelling cleverly shifts perspectives between Laura and Cherry, forcing you to pick sides only to flip your assumptions moments later. Wright delivers a powerhouse performance as a protective mother walking the thin line between justified concern and unhealthy obsession. Cooke, meanwhile, keeps Cherry enigmatic — likable one moment, unsettling the next. Daniel (Laurie Davidson) is caught in the middle, and you can feel the weight of his impossible position.

Beyond the performances, the production design elevates the show to another level. Sleek art galleries, opulent interiors, and hauntingly composed shots create a backdrop that’s as stylish as it is unsettling. Even when the plot edges into melodrama — which it occasionally does — it’s impossible to look away.

And the best part? All six episodes are already available for streaming on Prime Video. No waiting week after week — you can binge this nail-biter right now. Hallelujah!

The Girlfriend is unsettling, addictive, and brilliantly performed. If you’re a fan of dark family dramas with psychological twists, this is a series you don’t want to miss. I’m only two episodes in, but trust me, I’ll be finishing the rest of this series, THIS weekend!