‘Scarpetta’ Review: Nicole Kidman’s Grim, by-the-Book Crime Drama Is Just Weird Enough to Remember

“Scarpetta” is an Amazon series adapted from Patricia Cornwell's long-running book series, created by Liz Sarnoff. The series follows a state medical examiner's investigation into a series of murders that occurred 28 years apart. The show features Nicole Kidman in the lead role, portraying the character Kay Scarpetta, a medical examiner. The cast includes notable actors such as Jamie Lee Curtis, Bobby Cannavale, Simon Baker, and Ariana DeBose, who co-star alongside Kidman in this eight-episode thriller. The adaptation has received mixed reviews, with some critics noting that it feels overly familiar and uneven. Despite this, Kidman’s performance has been highlighted as a strong aspect of the series, showcasing her ability to navigate the complexities of the character. Critics have pointed out the odd casting choices and the series' adherence to a formulaic approach typical of crime dramas. While the narrative structure may seem predictable, the unique elements of the story have been described as “just weird enough to remember.” Overall, “Scarpetta” presents a blend of crime investigation and character-driven storytelling, rooted in Cornwell's established literary universe.