Netflix adds seasons of 'exceptional' period drama fans did not want to end
All episodes of a simmering period drama often compared to a fusion of Bridgerton and Shameless will soon be dropped by Netflix.
Originally crafted through collaboration between ITV and Hulu, Harlots first graced screens in 2017 and is slated for release on the streaming giant starting this Tuesday (July 1). The series draws its inspiration from Hallie Rubenhold's non-fiction work 'The Covent Garden Ladies'.
Although Starzplay initially introduced it to UK viewers, the BBC snapped up the rights in 2020. Now, as the show settles into its new residence on Netflix, it stands ready to captivate a fresh audience.
Harlots dives into the tale of Margaret Wells, who runs a brothel and ambitiously seeks to cater to the affluent crowd of Soho, London. However, her endeavours pitch her against Lydia, a fierce rival madam, and Wells' former boss.
In 2019, The Guardian ran a critique hailing Harlots as 'the best show you're not watching'. These words were penned shortly before the curtain fell on its third and conclusive season, reports Surrey Live.
Yet, the drama has garnered acclaims far and wide, leading to an impressive 97% score on Rotten Tomatoes. One review read: "This is a new style of historical drama, comparable perhaps to The Favourite but faster moving - and it's also differently inflected in being a show almost entirely created by women."
Another critic raved: "Harlots is a jaw-dropping drama that won't give you easy answers or trite comforts, though it will take you on an emotional ride through the ups and downs of being a sex worker (of any status) in 18th century England."
A third reviewer enthused: "Come for the strong female-driven storylines and stay for the truly memorable costumes."
Viewers who have already devoured the show are equally effusive in their praise. One fan shared their thoughts online, saying: "Initially, you might think this is a risqué, late-night series, but I'm so glad I stumbled upon it. This is an exceptional period drama that explores themes of patriarchy, survival, sexual empowerment, social status, and class. With few likeable characters, the tension is palpable from start to finish."
Another fan described the series as a mashup of 'Bridgerton meets Shameless', while someone else gushed: "AMAZING! it's so addictive, the story line is absolutely fabulous and you're always wondering what will happen next!".
A fellow viewer confessed: "I'm finally getting around to watching this show and I'm obsessed. Can't believe there won't be a season 4. Brilliant character development, wonderful acting. I am on the edge of my seat to see what the characters will do next. I don't want it to end."
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