Hulu’s The Handmaid’s Tale is an American web TV series adaptation of Canadian author Margaret Atwood’s novel. It is set in a dystopian world where women can’t use their birth name and have to use the name of the male to whom they belong. The story revolves around these women trying to find their own independence and individualism in a patriarchal society that tries to hold them down. With the grim setting and the social issue that it tries to uphold, the story is relevant in today’s society. There is still a debate whether it’s under science fiction or speculative fiction, many readers have been enthralled with the harrowing story of Offred, the protagonist. If you are not intrigued already, here are seven more reasons to get you hooked to this immensely popular TV series that everyone is raving about.
No Need To Read The Original Book
Yes, it is based on Margaret Atwood’s famous novel for sure, but that doesn’t mean you will need the book to understand what’s going on in the show. If you are a late-comer, just catch on the previous seasons’ episodes, and you are good to go. The show captures the spirit of the story well. But if you want to check out the book before diving into the series, that’s okay, too.
The Intriguing Setting
The setting itself is so interesting that it’s easily one of the best things about the show. It is set in the near future – a world where fertile women are rare and are looked upon as a hot commodity. In fact, they are enslaved and used for reproduction. Want to know what happens to them? Well, you need to watch the show then!
The Brilliant Cast
What makes it even more brilliant is the fact that the cast is amazing. Elizabeth Moss, who plays the role of Offred, is above and beyond all criticism now, but despite being under the spotlight for her role, the rest of the cast have also shone in their respective roles. The supporting cast, consisting of Joseph Fiennes, Samira Wiley, and Yvonne Strahovski, among others, is equally great. Together, they have made the show one of the best right now.
The Oppressed Protagonist As The New Hero
We love to see a hero who gets up from the ashes every time, and The Handmaid’s Tale gives us just that. Offred, despite being in a heavily patriarchal world, is fighting tooth and nails to rebel against the authority. The whole idea is so motivating and gripping that you will be glued to your TV screen for sure.
If You Are A Woman, You Can Relate
Several countries in our present world still treat women like they are just a baby-wielding machine; hence the show is eerily relatable and relevant. Everything is decided for them in that dystopian world and that too for their own sake! The parallels drawn to the modern world is undeniable and work towards making the show even more alluring.
It is Brutal Yet Appealing
The brutality portrayed in the show may have been too much to handle for some people. Even the colors used were oppressive and added to its period drama theme. But the storyline and brilliant cast made it worth the while. The plot required the brutality, and though it’s not for the squeamish, it’s difficult to stop once you start.
The Most Difficult Scenes Are Brilliantly Portrayed
Physical intimacy is not something to be cherished in the world of Offred. Instead, it is emotionally draining and hard to watch. There are scenes where the handmaids are forced to have intercourse with their masters as their wives look on. The scenes are so emotionally engaging that you can’t stop yourself from thinking about what will happen next with every single scene you see. Now you know what we meant when we said you will be glued to your TV screen.
Despite the negativity and the brutal scenes, what keeps the viewers attached to it is the rebel mentality among the handmaids. Viewers want a change for them, too, and they want to see Offred as the hero, wishing for her success. Trust us, this is a masterpiece that you would not want to miss. If you haven’t watched it yet, now is the time. In case you didn’t know, the show has affected people so deeply that protesters in Argentina are dressing up like handmaids. Talk about social impact!