Mark Strong‘s pivotal role as David Sharpe in Nine Perfect Strangers season 2 takes the spotlight in the series‘ fifth episode, as new information about David’s relationship with Nicole Kidman‘s Masha Dmitrichenko is uncovered in a dramatic flashback. The installment, titled Prague, peels back layers of mystery and intensifies the emotional stakes for the ensemble cast set at the fictional Zauberwald estate.
As episode five unfolds, viewers are pulled into the past, uncovering secrets that set the trajectory for the rest of the season. This look back not only heightens the tension among the characters but also highlights how David Sharpe’s arrival at Zauberwald is far more significant than initially believed.
The Creative Team Pushes Boundaries in “Prague”
The show’s creative minds—including creator David E. Kelley, co-showrunner John-Henry Butterworth, and directors Jonathan Levine and Anthony Byrne—crafted a flashback episode that goes to remarkable lengths. Nicole Kidman remarks,
take it to the next level, because Masha always does,
—Nicole Kidman, Actress
Reflecting on the bold storytelling approach, Kidman adds, “We push every limit.” This sentiment is echoed by the cast’s dynamic performances as they dive deep into their characters’ complicated pasts.
Mark Strong and Nicole Kidman Reunite On Screen
Mark Strong, who previously collaborated with Nicole Kidman in “Before I Go To Sleep” (2014), expressed enthusiasm about joining the season’s ensemble and exploring the complex role of David Sharpe. He shares,
I was very excited by it. I worked with Nic before 10 years ago,
—Mark Strong, Actor
His return alongside Kidman adds an extra layer of depth to the show. Strong describes joining the larger cast for the journey to Zauberwald as
a no-brainer, really, because the first one was great, Nic is great, and the other actors all sounded brilliant.
—Mark Strong, Actor
Finding humor in his role, he also notes,
the opportunity to play a guy who’s a billionaire is always a giggle,
—Mark Strong, Actor
David Sharpe’s True Connection to Masha Dmitrichenko
Arriving in the opening episode cloaked in secrecy and opulence, David Sharpe’s motivations seem unclear—his only immediate link among the group being his son, Peter (played by Henry Golding). However, the “Prague” episode radically transforms this perception, exposing David as deeply entwined with Masha and the core secrets of Nine Perfect Strangers.
Crucially, viewers learn that David is the father of Masha’s deceased daughter, Tatiana (Emílie Páclová). Their bond began in 2001, with Masha working as both a journalist and makeup artist at a broadcast news station. Recalling an awkward interview David was to give about
lifting the Iron Curtain and selling it for parts,
—Nicole Kidman as Masha Dmitrichenko
the memory triggers a whirlwind night leading to Tatiana’s conception. This revelation serves as the centerpiece of the episode’s emotional arc.
The Emotional Impact of the Reveal
Nicole Kidman explores Masha’s motivations for bringing David into her life, stressing his importance to her personal journey and to the dramatic arc of the season.
For Masha, it’s about bringing him in particular into this equation, because of his place in her life,
—Nicole Kidman, Actress
She continues,
When you find out who he is — the father of her child — that’s very, very important. There’s a reason for it all, to the very end of this series, I won’t spoil the finale, but it’s always leading towards him. Everything is leading towards David.
—Nicole Kidman, Actress
The plot’s sense of inevitability creates a mounting sense of unease and emotional conflict.
David Sharpe: Beyond Wealth and Mystery
Mark Strong delves into David’s fascination with Masha, revealing that his character’s journey to Zauberwald, which seems driven by the desire to reconnect with his son, masks a deeper intent.
David’s always been fascinated with Masha,
—Mark Strong, Actor
The episode’s events push David far beyond his comfort zone, unraveling emotional truths via Masha’s guidance. Strong explains the profound impact Masha has on David:
She gives him this huge revelation, gives him the drugs, and he does something he really wasn’t expecting. She completely opens him up.
—Mark Strong, Actor
These scenes blend psychological tension with revelations, as boundaries between fact and fiction blur under the influence of both trauma and mind-altering substances.
Masha’s Own Vulnerability and Intentions
The episode tests the boundaries of trust and intent. Masha withholds the full truth about David’s paternity from him, raising questions about her mental state and motivations. Yet, Kidman insists her character acts from a place of sincerity.
It’s always with the best of intentions,
—Nicole Kidman, Actress
She adds,
She’s not trying to harm. She has her own past, which is what [episode] five is about. She’s a difficult character, but she’s very, I think her heart is in the right place.
—Nicole Kidman, Actress
The flashback episode thus not only serves as an exposition of major plot twists, but also humanizes both David and Masha at pivotal moments.
Digging Deep for Raw, Authentic Performances
Nicole Kidman reflects on the intensity demanded by this episode’s climactic moments, underscoring the need for genuine expression in revealing such painful secrets.
Everything has to be real. You can’t be showing up and pretending because becomes that becomes obvious, and you don’t feel it,
—Nicole Kidman, Actress
She elaborates,
You’ve got to see skin color change. You’ve got to see real tears. You’ve got to see real emotions, because that’s what this is. It’s real.
—Nicole Kidman, Actress
Her approach reflects the emotionally charged tone that permeates “Prague,” ensuring that each reveal lands with authenticity.
The Lasting Impact and What’s Next for Nine Perfect Strangers
With the shocking history between Masha and David now fully revealed, the dynamics at Zauberwald are set to shift drastically in the remaining episodes. Kidman has hinted that as the series moves towards its conclusion, “everything is leading towards David.” The creative team’s commitment to emotional realism and boundary-pushing storytelling promises more revelations and upheaval.
Mark Strong’s pivotal role as David Sharpe in Nine Perfect Strangers season 2 not only redefines his character‘s place in the ensemble, but also propels the season toward an unpredictable finale. As viewers continue to follow the remaining episodes, especially on Hulu every Wednesday, the significance of these revelations is certain to echo throughout the unstable world of Zauberwald.
