Hulu is growing its original content to keep up with the competition. The streaming service became the first of its kind to take home the coveted Outstanding Drama Series award at the Emmys for its popular title “The Handmaid’s Tale.” But otherwise, it’s struggled to garner acclaim for most of its other shows. Within the growing programming of Hulu is a sultry period drama, “Harlots,” and frankly, no one seems to really be watching despite all the terrific actors on the show.
While “Harlots” hasn’t received the kind of critical acclaim that moves the needle, the first season evidently gained enough of a following to warrant a second (either that or Hulu just believes in the show regardless). The season two trailer has arrived with tall wigs, painted faces and all. And the follow-up appears to be debuting new characters while testing the established ensemble.
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“Harlots” premiered in March of 2017, but never really caught fire despite that aforementioned cast. Brothel owner, Margaret Wells (Samantha Morton), is at a crossroads. She is struggling to raise her daughters in 18th century London, and maintain her business when a rival with a ruthless streak moves in on her territory. Along with Morton, the show has a stacked cast including Lesley Manville (“Phantom Thread“), Danny Sapani (“Penny Dreadful“) and Jessica Brown Findlay (“Downton Abbey“).
Season two will introduce fans to Liv Tyler‘s (“The Lord Of The Rings“) new character who will remain a series regular. And by the looks of the trailer, she’s about to shake things up in London. The show chronicles the power dynamics between men and women during the historic time period and the production is decadently fashioned with period costumes and lavish decoration (you can bet it’s not cheap to produce). But the setting never mirrors the harsh subject matter of the series. Co-creators Moira Buffini and Alison Newman, promise a dramatic, tantalizing season. As an exchange in the trailer suggests, “Women will always be at the mercy of men’s power.” “It’s not your power we’re at the mercy of. It’s your weakness.”
Harlots on Hulu season 2 premiere July 11.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7PHX5gpjro0&feature=em-uploademail
