Parents' Guide to Expats

TV Prime Video Drama 2024
Expats TV Show Poster Image: Margaret character is see from behind on a Hong Kong street

Common Sense Media Review

Polly Conway By Polly Conway , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 15+

Atmospheric, melancholy drama has some sex, intense themes.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 15+?

Any Positive Content?

Parent and Kid Reviews

age 18+

Based on 1 parent review

What's the Story?

It's almost time for wealthy American expat Margaret's husband's 50th birthday party. With the loss of one of their twin sons in the recent past, she wonders if it's even a good idea. Meanwhile, 20-something Mercy (Ji-young Woo) is also in Hong Kong, escaping a troubled past and working as a caterer. When their lives collide (not for the first time), secrets and feelings are unleashed on unfamiliar ground.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say ( 1 ):
Kids say : Not yet rated

This moody, atmospheric series moves slowly and deliberately, not always to its benefit. Expats' central story is teased out over time, but the acting can be wooden and the hook may not come soon enough for some viewers. The Hong Kong setting can be beautiful and ostracizing, much like Margaret, played by a diaphanous but slightly off-putting Kidman. And those pushing for more story might ask, how many long, melancholy shots of her in a gorgeous backless gown do we really need?

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about expat communities. What would it be like to live in another country? Who do you think you would like to meet and know?

  • Talk about connections. How are people connected to each other in the world?

  • How does Margaret's family deal with the loss of her son? Is it healthy? What are healthy ways to manage grief and deal with death?

TV Details

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by

Expats TV Show Poster Image: Margaret character is see from behind on a Hong Kong street

What to Watch Next

Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.

See how we rate