Written by Olivia Aiere
The Girlfriend, which currently sits in the Top 10 of Prime Video’s most popular series, follows the power struggle between a mother and her son’s girlfriend. The cold open of the first episode alludes to the culmination of this struggle, but the war waged in this unconventional love triangle makes the journey just as satisfying as the destination. The first three episodes are directed by Robin Wright, who also stars as “boy mom” Laura Sanderson while the last three episodes are directed by Andrea Harkin.
Wright’s character Laura is obsessed with her son, Daniel (Laurie Davidson, The Sandman). When Daniel brings home his girlfriend Cherry Laine (Olivia Cooke, House of the Dragon) she finds herself threatened by Cherry’s presence in her son’s life. The episodes are split in half, following both women as they navigate their places in Daniel’s life. Certain scenes are repeated from both perspectives with slight changes to the events that take place. Where Cherry’s perspective might show her as anxious and antsy, Laura’s perspective introduces us to a possessive side of Cherry with a habit of lying. As the gap between their two stories widens, the viewer is left to piece together the truth for themselves. Daniel also remarks at one point that Laura reminds him of Cherry, highlighting their similarities despite their differing view points. This game of comparing and contrasting elevates the drama by encouraging a form of audience participation. In an era of spoonfed exposition, this refreshing viewing experience demands focus and engagement from those watching.
Laura and Daniel’s relationship throughout the series is given an almost incestuous undertone, especially with characters acknowledging that Cherry and Laura play similar roles in Daniel’s life. This Freudian concept has been somewhat rebranded on social media as being a “boy mom” — a mom so obsessed with her son that she spoils him even into adulthood. Laura’s disdain for Cherry stems from her fear of being replaced, creating a “love triangle” of sorts. This exploration of the line between mother and girlfriend exposes the insecurities on both sides of the conflict and is quite relevant in today’s discussions of relationships and romantic responsibilities.
Cherry’s relationship with Daniel, on the other hand, is shadowed by her worry about not fitting in. Being working class, Cherry has a hard time adjusting to the Sanderson’s comfortable way of life and at first is most worried about gaining their approval. As far as class commentary goes, it’s mostly used as a tool to drive Cherry and Laura apart while also serving as a motivation for Cherry to fit in.
Wright and Cooke deliver addicting performances. Their chemistry creates a tension that draws tighter with each move they make. Even when apart, the characters begin to revolve around one another and become each other’s sole focus (next to Daniel, of course). If you’re not already hooked on the beautiful sets and locations or even the gorgeous costuming of Cherry Laine, you will be hooked by Wright and Cooke’s onscreen rivalry.
Wright and Davidson create a convincing codependent relationship onscreen with their shared looks and Davidson’s balancing act of spoiled son and clueless boyfriend. Daniel’s doubts about Cherry are built upon from his trust and devotion to his mother, yet his lack of agency makes him easily impressionable. Cherry and Daniel’s romance is sudden yet strong, due to Cooke and Davidson matching in charm and charisma.
Cooke especially draws a lot of attention with her performance and not just because of Cherry’s unpredictability. Cooke makes an impression in any project she’s part of because she is, simply put, fun to watch. Her wide range of characters is fascinating to dive into, and it would be worth it to check out her other works if you were in any way enchanted by Cherry.
Now, a warning: you might want to skip this one if you can’t stomach characters with questionable moral standings. But for the crowd that loves ambitious women who aren’t afraid to get a little evil, you’ve found your next watch.
