2019 Show
Moira Buffini · United Kingdom, United States of America · English, Spanish
A fiercely feminist period romp that could (and should) rival Bridgerton
Unlike a handful of modern period dramas, Harlots isn’t flashy just for the sake of being flashy. It carries messages that (sadly) still ring true to this day, most of them about female bodily autonomy and the near impossibility of upward mobility. The show is smart about it, never preachy, presenting us with fleshed-out characters with contradictory ideals. Charlotte (Jessica Brown Findlay), for instance, craves freedom but enjoys the security being under a master affords her. Indeed the entire premise of the series is ironic: how can a show about female prostitution be empowering? By being relevant and relatable, as it turns out, and consistently impressive too. The show has garnered high ratings throughout its three seasons, though it unfortunately isn’t enough to convince Hulu for a fourth run. Their loss, this is the period drama that could’ve and should’ve given Netflix’s Bridgerton a run for its money.
Brothel owner, Margaret Wells, struggles to raise her daughters in London during the 18th century.
"Harlots is unsparing and sympathetic, able to find humor in its characters' romps and compassion for the profession's tragedies."
— Sonia Saraiya
In 18th century London, two brothels compete to get the most clients as simultaneously they deal with society’s wretched treatment of the minority class.
Lesley Manville going head to head against Samantha Morton is the kind of premium content streaming should strive for.
Only a majority-female-led cast and crew can make a prostitution period drama this tasteful.
Renee Cuisia is the lead curator at A Good Movie to Watch. In her spare time, she likes to watch K-dramas and analyze them to death. She's also seen You've Got Mail one too many times but is still convinced it's one of the greatest films out there.
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