The story of Natalia Grace, a Ukrainian girl adopted by an American family who claimed she was an adult, has captivated audiences for years. The saga began in 2010, but the Hulu series “Good American Family” offers a fresh perspective on the case, tackling complex themes and moral ambiguities.
Writer Katie Robbins’ eight-part limited series presents a nuanced exploration of the events surrounding Natalia’s adoption by Kristine Barnett (Ellen Pompeo) and her husband Michael (Mark Duplass). The show skillfully weaves together multiple perspectives, including those of Natalia herself, as she navigates her new life with the Barnetts.
While some may find the series’ non-linear structure confusing, it serves a purpose in highlighting the complexities of the case. By presenting competing viewpoints and shifting timelines, Robbins creates a sense of tension and uncertainty, mirroring the experiences of those involved.
The show’s visual aesthetic is intentionally plain, allowing the audience to focus on the emotional weight of the story. Ellen Pompeo shines as the smug momfluencer-turned-concerned mother, while Christina Hendricks brings depth and nuance as Natalia’s Earth Mother figure.
Ultimately, “Good American Family” will appeal most to those unfamiliar with the Natalia Grace case, as it provides a thoughtful introduction to the events without sensationalizing or exploiting them. The series is not perfect, but its willingness to confront difficult themes and moral dilemmas makes it a compelling watch for fans of true crime and satire.
As “Good American Family” lands on Hulu in the US and Disney+ in the UK, viewers can look forward to a complex and thought-provoking exploration of one of the most infamous adoption cases in recent history.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2025/mar/19/good-american-family-review-natalia-grace