Best Hulu Original Series: Highly Recommend!

Discover the top Hulu original series through this guide to the best dramas on Hulu. Unlock a world of compelling narratives and memorable performances.

The Handmaid’s Tale: A Dystopian Masterpiece

Hulu’s original series “The Handmaid’s Tale” is a dystopian masterpiece that has captivated audiences since its premiere in 2017. Based on Margaret Atwood’s novel of the same name, the show explores a future where women have been stripped of their rights and are forced to serve as reproductive surrogates for the ruling class.

The series follows June, played brilliantly by Elisabeth Moss, as she navigates life as a handmaid in the Republic of Gilead. Her story is one of survival, rebellion, and hope in the face of a cruel and oppressive regime.

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What sets “The Handmaid’s Tale” apart from other dystopian dramas is its unrelenting emotional intensity. The show is unafraid to delve into the darkest corners of humanity, exploring themes of power, sexuality, and identity with unflinching honesty. The result is a series that is at once terrifying, cathartic, and deeply moving.

Little Fires Everywhere

Based on the best-selling novel of the same name by Celeste Ng, Little Fires Everywhere is a powerful and thought-provoking drama that explores issues of motherhood, race, class, and identity. Set in Shaker Heights, Ohio, in the late 1990s, the series follows the intertwined lives of two families: the wealthy Richardsons and the struggling Warrens.

At the heart of the story is the complex relationship between Elena Richardson (Reese Witherspoon), a privileged white woman, and Mia Warren (Kerry Washington), a talented photographer and single mother who has recently moved to town with her teenage daughter Pearl (Lexi Underwood). As Elena becomes increasingly fascinated with Mia’s bohemian lifestyle, tensions simmer and secrets are revealed, ultimately leading to a devastating act of arson that engulfs the Richardson family home.

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Pen15: A Hilarious and Heartfelt Coming-of-Age Story

If you’re looking for a nostalgic trip back to the awkwardness of middle school, look no further than Pen15. This critically acclaimed Hulu original series follows the misadventures of two 13-year-old girls, Maya and Anna, as they navigate the trials and tribulations of seventh grade in the year 2000.

What sets Pen15 apart from other coming-of-age shows is that the creators, Maya Erskine and Anna Konkle, play fictionalized versions of themselves alongside their teenage co-stars. This unique approach adds an extra layer of authenticity to the show’s portrayal of adolescence, capturing the cringe-worthy moments and intense emotions of growing up in a way that feels both hilarious and heartfelt.

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Despite its comedic tone, Pen15 doesn’t shy away from tackling serious issues like mental health, racism, and divorce. But even when exploring these heavy topics, the show never loses its lighthearted charm or infectious energy.

One standout episode of Pen15 is “Posh,” in which Maya and Anna attempt to join the popular clique at their school by adopting British accents and pretending to be exchange students. The result is a hilarious and poignant commentary on the lengths we’ll go to fit in and feel accepted.

Casual: The Underrated Gem of Hulu Originals

While many viewers may overlook the show “Casual” among the other popular Hulu originals, this dramedy series definitely deserves a spot on your watchlist. Created by Zander Lehmann, “Casual” tells the story of Valerie, an online dating site executive, her bachelor brother Alex, and her teenage daughter Laura who moves in with them after a divorce. The series explores their relationships, family dynamics, and personal struggles with life, love, and career.

The show’s strength lies in its witty and relatable writing, which manages to balance humor and drama seamlessly. The excellent performances by Michaela Watkins, Tommy Dewey, and Tara Lynne Barr also elevate the show, bringing depth and authenticity to their characters. The chemistry between the three leads is undeniable, making it easy to invest in their stories and root for their growth.

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From a visual standpoint, the cinematography and soundtrack complement the show’s tone and mood, creating a cohesive and immersive viewing experience. The show’s use of natural lighting and muted colors adds to its grounded and realistic feel, while the indie-pop soundtrack sets the perfect backdrop for its emotional beats.

Ramy: A Hulu Original Series You Can’t Miss

Ramy is a critically acclaimed Hulu original series that debuted in 2019. Created by and starring Ramy Youssef, the show follows the life of a first-generation Egyptian-American as he navigates the challenges of identity, faith, and relationships in New Jersey.

The series is a fresh take on the coming-of-age story, highlighting the unique experiences of Muslim American youth. Ramy’s unapologetic portrayal of Muslim culture and traditions provides viewers with a glimpse into a world often misunderstood or misrepresented in mainstream media.

Castle Rock: A Masterpiece of Mystery and Horror

Castle Rock is a Hulu original series that premiered in 2018, based on characters and themes from the world of Stephen King. Set in the eponymous fictional town of Castle Rock, Maine, the show weaves together multiple storylines and mysteries that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The series centers around Henry Deaver (played by André Holland), a death row attorney who returns to his hometown after receiving a mysterious call from Shawshank State Penitentiary. There, he meets a young man named “The Kid” (played by Bill Skarsgård) who has been held prisoner for years without explanation. As Henry tries to unravel the mystery behind The Kid’s incarceration, he is drawn into a web of supernatural events that threaten to consume him and everyone around him.

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What sets Castle Rock apart from other horror shows is its attention to detail and rich storytelling. The creators of the series have expertly woven together elements from various Stephen King novels and short stories to create a unique and haunting world. Fans of King’s work will delight in spotting references to iconic characters and locations, while newcomers will be drawn in by the show’s engrossing atmosphere and suspenseful plot.

Shrill: The Empowering and Hilarious Hulu Original Series You Need to See

Shrill is a must-watch Hulu original series that follows the story of Annie, a young woman who’s fed up with society’s expectations of what she should look like and how she should behave. Based on Lindy West’s memoir of the same name, this show is an authentic and empowering representation of body positivity, self-acceptance, and female empowerment.

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Aidy Bryant stars as Annie, a witty and smart aspiring writer who has struggled with insecurity and low self-esteem her entire life. However, things start to change when Annie decides to stop letting others dictate her worth and starts standing up for herself, whether it’s at work, in her relationships, or in her personal life.

One of the most refreshing aspects of Shrill is its sincere portrayal of diverse and complex characters. From Annie’s supportive best friend Fran (Lolly Adefope) to her difficult but loving mother (Julia Sweeney), each character is multidimensional and fully realized.

High Fidelity: A Must-Watch Hulu Original Series

If you’re a music lover and a fan of the classic novel by Nick Hornby, then “High Fidelity” is the perfect show to add to your watchlist. This Hulu original series follows Rob (played by Zoë Kravitz), a record store owner in Brooklyn who’s struggling to move on from her ex-boyfriend while also navigating her love life and friendships.

One of the things that make “High Fidelity” stand out is its soundtrack. Each episode features a well-curated playlist that reflects the characters’ moods and emotions, making it feel like a mixtape come to life. From Elvis Costello to Billie Holiday, the music alone is enough reason to tune in.

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The Act: A Compelling True Crime Drama

The Act is one of Hulu’s most gripping original series, a true-crime drama that explores the shocking case of Dee Dee Blanchard and her daughter Gypsy Rose.

Dee Dee was a devoted mother who cared for her supposedly sickly daughter, Gypsy. But as the series unfolds, it becomes clear that their relationship is far from ordinary. Dee Dee suffers from Munchausen syndrome by proxy, a mental illness where a caregiver fabricates or induces illness in a child to gain attention or sympathy.

Gypsy is not actually sick, but she has been forced to use a wheelchair and undergo several invasive medical procedures throughout her life. As Gypsy begins to uncover her mother’s lies, she realizes that her entire life has been a carefully constructed web of deceit.

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The Act is a masterful blend of true crime and psychological thriller. The performances are outstanding, with Patricia Arquette delivering an Emmy-winning performance as Dee Dee, and Joey King portraying Gypsy with nuance and sensitivity. The series delves into the complex dynamics of family relationships, trauma, and mental illness, all while keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.

East Los High: A Must-Watch Hulu Original Series

If you’re looking for a drama series that explores the complexities of teenage life, East Los High is a must-watch. This Hulu original series is set in a fictional high school in East Los Angeles and follows the lives of a group of students as they navigate their way through love, sex, and identity issues.

The show tackles important social issues such as teen pregnancy, HIV/AIDS, peer pressure, and immigration while showcasing the cultural diversity and richness of the East LA community. The cast is comprised mostly of Latinx actors and actresses who bring authenticity and depth to their roles.

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One of the standout features of the show is its use of dance and choreography. The characters showcase their talents through various dance styles such as hip hop, ballet, and salsa, adding an extra layer of entertainment and excitement to the series.

East Los High has received critical acclaim for its portrayal of complex and realistic characters, addressing important social issues, and providing a platform for underrepresented communities in mainstream media. The show ran for four seasons, from 2013 to 2017, garnering a loyal fanbase who were invested in the characters and their stories.

FAQs

If you’re looking for something new to watch on Hulu, you can’t go wrong with their original series. Here are some frequently asked questions about the best Hulu Originals that are sure to keep you entertained:

What are Hulu Originals?

Hulu Originals are exclusive TV shows and movies that are produced or co-produced by Hulu. These shows are unique to the platform and cannot be found anywhere else. They include a variety of genres, including drama, comedy, and documentary.

What are the Best Hulu Original Series?

There are a lot of great Hulu Originals to choose from, but here are ten of the best:

  1. The Handmaid’s Tale - This dystopian drama follows the story of Offred, a woman who is forced to become a handmaid and bear children for a government official in a future where fertility rates have plummeted.
  2. Little Fires Everywhere - Based on the novel by Celeste Ng, this drama explores themes of motherhood, race, and class as two families’ lives become intertwined.
  3. Pen15 - A comedy about two middle school girls navigating the awkwardness of adolescence in the year 2000.
  4. Casual - This comedy-drama follows a dysfunctional family as they navigate relationships and personal growth.
  5. Ramy - A coming-of-age story about a young Muslim-American man trying to find his place in the world while balancing his faith and cultural identity.
  6. Castle Rock - This horror anthology series is set in the Stephen King universe and features an all-star cast.
  7. Shrill - A comedy about a young woman learning to love herself and stand up for what she wants in a world that constantly tries to put her down.
  8. High Fidelity - Based on the novel and film of the same name, this romantic comedy follows a record store owner as she revisits past relationships in an attempt to figure out why she’s still single.
  9. The Act - A true crime drama about the twisted relationship between a mother and daughter.
  10. East Los High - A drama series that explores the lives of Latino teenagers growing up in East Los Angeles.

Can I watch Hulu Originals without a subscription?

No, you need a Hulu subscription to watch Hulu Originals. However, you can sign up for a free trial to see if it’s right for you. Additionally, some Hulu Originals may be available on other streaming services or for purchase on digital platforms like iTunes or Amazon.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a binge-worthy TV show to add to your watchlist, Hulu has got you covered with their original series. From dystopian societies to coming-of-age stories, there’s something for everyone on this streaming platform.

Overall, Hulu has delivered some truly addictive and compelling original series that are sure to keep you entertained for hours on end. So grab your popcorn, settle in, and get ready to be hooked.