Prime Video is starting strong in January with the premiere of ‘Expatriates’, the highly anticipated television series based on the novel by Janice Y. K. Lee, debuted on the platform on January 26. The series delves into the lives of three women in the same city, Hong Kong.
Nicole Kidman stars as ‘Margaret’, one of these women whose life unfolds in the bustling Chinese city. The other two protagonists are Ji Young Yoo as ‘Mercy’ and Sarayu Blue as ‘Hilary’. In 2017, Blossom Films acquired the rights to the novel, which has been in development with Amazon Prime Video since 2019, finally being released as what promises to be a compelling drama.
Controversy surrounded the production when Nicole Kidman arrived on the island to begin filming during the covid pandemic. The acclaimed artist was exempted from the mandatory 21-day quarantine, sparking a wave of criticism on social media and various media outlets. There were also concerns about the filming amidst a climate of political deterioration and confrontation with Chinese authorities.
The first season of ‘Expatriates’ has six episodes
The first season of ‘Expats’ consists of six episodes. The first two were released on January 26, with subsequent episodes premiering weekly. This means that new episodes will be available until February 23.
The series was created by Lulu Wang, who also directs some episodes. The filmmaker, holding an American passport, was born in China, adding an intriguing layer to the production of this anticipated Prime Video series. The executive producers include Nicole Kidman, Per Saari, Theresa Park, Alicia Bell, Melanie Marnich, Daniel Meliá, Stan Wlodkowski, and Lulu Wang herself.
Produced by Blossom Films, Per Capita Productions, Local Time, and Amazon MGM Studios, ‘Expatriates’ is a significant addition to Prime Video’s lineup. The series’ exploration of life in Hong Kong through the experiences of three different women is expected to offer a rich tapestry of cultural, social, and personal narratives. With its backdrop set against the unique and dynamic landscape of Hong Kong, the show promises to provide viewers with an insightful look into the complexities of expatriate life, intertwined with the personal journeys of its characters.
The involvement of Nicole Kidman not only in a starring role but also as an executive producer, alongside the talented Lulu Wang, brings a considerable depth of experience and artistic vision to the project. The series is anticipated to resonate with audiences around the world, particularly those interested in stories of personal transformation and cultural exploration.
‘Expatriates’ is poised to captivate audiences with its compelling storyline, rich character development, and the portrayal of Hong Kong’s vibrant cityscape. As viewers tune in each week, they can expect to be drawn into a world of drama, intrigue, and the nuanced experiences of living in a foreign land. The series is not just a drama; it’s an exploration of identity, belonging, and the ever-evolving concept of home in our increasingly globalized world.
