( 𝒴𝑜𝓊 𝒞𝒶𝓃’𝓉 𝑀𝒾𝓈𝓈 )

( Strictly for the jaw-dropping scenery—don’t make me swap this for a Liam Neeson action marathon! )

If you adore luxurious settings, sumptuous visuals, and an intoxicating mix of suspense and mystery, this curated list is your ticket to cinematic escapism and with extraordinary performances by some of the finest actors of our time ( as you know am in my 40s) these films and series are not only thrilling but also a feast for the eyes.

( These are my personal favourites, and I can’t help but swoon over the timeless charm of Hugh Grant and the captivating elegance of Nicole Kidman. I also adore Liam Neeson but he doesn’t deserve in this list as he needs his own full fledged blog. And just like that their performances never fail to leave me mesmerised. Pour yourself a glass of your favourite drink , settle into your cosiest spot, and let these mesmerising tales whisk you away.)

1. The White Lotus

Starring: Jennifer Coolidge, Alexandra Daddario, Aubrey Plaza 

This dark comedy-drama set in luxurious resorts captivates with its razor-sharp wit and decadent visuals. Jennifer Coolidge shines as Tanya, a whimsical yet tragic character, her performance balancing humour and pathos amidst the stunning backdrops of Hawaii and Italy.

2. Big Little Lies

Starring: Nicole Kidman, Reese Witherspoon, Shailene Woodley, Laura Dern

Set against the breathtaking coastline of Monterey, California, this drama unravels the secrets of wealthy families whose polished exteriors hide dark truths. Nicole Kidman stuns as Celeste, embodying grace and vulnerability with her ethereal presence, soft-spoken charm, and impeccable wardrobe that complements her every scene.

3.Nine Perfect Strangers

Starring: Nicole Kidman, Melissa McCarthy

Nicole Kidman mesmerises once again as the enigmatic Masha, the ethereal leader of a wellness retreat. With her pristine silk robes, flawless skin, and a hauntingly calm demeanour, she commands the screen and the story, making the lush setting even more surreal.

4. The Undoing

Starring: Nicole Kidman, Hugh Grant

In this gripping psychological thriller, Nicole Kidman is exquisite as Grace, a Manhattan therapist whose life unravels amidst high society. Draped in couture coats and her signature fiery red hair, she glides through the Upper East Side with an elegance that mirrors her character’s complex layers.

Oh, and we also have Hugh Grant—how can anyone resist that charming stammer and mischievous twinkle? His voice is pure magic, like a warm cup of tea on a rainy day, smooth and comforting with a dash of posh mischief. ( Sorry couldn’t control as you can see am hopelessly smitten by him )

5.Behind Her Eyes

Starring: Simona Brown, Eve Hewson

With her magnetic presence, Eve Hewson plays Adele, a character whose elegance and fragility mask a sinister depth. The lavish settings and her enigmatic portrayal keep you riveted in this supernatural psychological thriller.

6. Little Fires Everywhere

Starring: Reese Witherspoon, Kerry Washington

Reese Witherspoon delivers a masterclass in portraying the polished and controlling Elena, a woman whose perfect life is threatened by an enigmatic newcomer. Her pristine appearance and composed demeanour reflect the tightly wound character she plays to perfection.

7. Sharp Objects

Starring: Amy Adams

Amy Adams is spellbinding as Camille, a troubled journalist unraveling dark secrets in her hometown. Her raw vulnerability and gothic elegance are in stark contrast to the sultry, southern setting, creating an atmosphere brimming with tension.

8. The Stranger

Starring: Richard Armitage, Hannah John-Kamen

Hannah John-Kamen brings a magnetic and unsettling energy to the titular role of the stranger, whose revelations send shockwaves through seemingly perfect suburban lives. Her modern, minimalist style and haunting gaze linger long after the final episode.

9. The Perfect Couple

Starring: Nicole Kidman, Liev Schreiber and many A listed new actors.

This adaptation will really promise glamour, secrets, and scandal. A murder mystery at a wedding? Yes, please!

10. Stay Close

Starring: Cush Jumbo, James Nesbitt

Cush Jumbo delivers a powerhouse performance as Megan, a woman whose past threatens to upend her idyllic suburban life. Her layered portrayal anchors the series, while the coastal backdrops add a touch of wild beauty to the suspenseful narrative.

11. The Night Manager

Starring: Tom Hiddleston, Hugh Laurie, Olivia Colman

Tom Hiddleston exudes charm and sophistication as Jonathan Pine, a former soldier entangled in the world of international arms dealing. Set in sumptuous locations, including luxurious hotels and exotic beaches, his every move is imbued with an effortless elegance that makes him captivating to watch.

12. Rebecca (2020)

Starring: Lily James, Armie Hammer, Kristin Scott Thomas

Lily James brings an understated grace to the new Mrs de Winter in this adaptation of Daphne du Maurier’s classic. Kristin Scott Thomas, as the chilling Mrs Danvers, commands every scene with an imperious presence that perfectly matches the grandeur of Manderley.

13. Riviera

Starring: Julia Stiles

Julia Stiles dazzles as Georgina Clios, navigating a labyrinth of deceit and betrayal in the sun-soaked French Riviera. Her sleek wardrobe and commanding performance amplify the allure of this glittering yet perilous world.

14. Broadchurch

Starring: David Tennant, Olivia Colman

Set against the rugged beauty of Dorset’s coastline, Olivia Colman shines as Detective Ellie Miller, whose warmth and humanity ground this poignant and chilling crime drama.

15. Fool Me Once

Starring: Michelle Keegan

In this adaptation of Harlan Coben’s thriller, Michelle Keegan steps into the role of Maya, whose seemingly perfect life takes a sinister turn. Expect glamorous visuals and gripping suspense.

From eerie retreats to clandestine affairs, these thrillers will captivate your imagination.

In addition to the other gripping series I’ve raved about, here are some absolute corkers that I couldn’t resist adding to the list. Trust me, you’ll want to binge these with a cuppa in hand:

• Mare of Easttown – Gritty, raw, and utterly captivating. Kate Winslet delivers a performance so good you’ll forgive her dodgy tracksuits.

• You – A deliciously creepy dive into obsession and manipulation. It’ll have you side-eyeing anyone who’s just a little too friendly.

• Cruel Summer – Twisty perspectives and jaw-dropping revelations. It’s the kind of show that keeps you saying, “just one more episode…” until it’s 3 a.m.

• The Stranger – Dark truths, mysterious strangers, and lives in tatters. It’s the suburban drama you didn’t know you needed.

• Stay Close – A thriller packed with secrets, suspense, and enough twists to keep you guessing. Bonus points for the moody cinematography.

• The Woods – A haunting story of lost innocence and lingering mysteries. You’ll never look at forests the same way again.

• Hold Tight – Think suburban bliss with a side of chaos. Secrets and lies are the order of the day in this cracking drama.

• Safe – A gated community where secrets fester behind every white picket fence. Spoiler alert: no one’s really safe.

• The Haunting of Hill House – Gothic horror at its finest. Equal parts eerie and beautiful, with a side of emotional wreckage for good measure.

Go on, dive in! You’ve got your weekend viewing sorted now.

Just don’t blame me if you’re too hooked to do the laundry.