Hulu has evolved as one of the primary streaming services in the entertainment business over the last decade, capturing fans with its vast library of original programs and licensed material. Hulu has produced various hit shows that have won the hearts of fans worldwide, ranging from critically acclaimed dramas to side-splitting comedies. In this blog, we’ll look at some of Hulu’s biggest hits, the shows that have helped the streaming service solidify its place in the entertainment world.
1. Only Murders in the Building (2021)
Only Murders in the Building is an entertaining comedy-mystery series that has captivated audiences since its debut in 2021. The show has gained significant critical acclaim for its creative writing, sharp humor, and great performances, thanks to a star-studded ensemble that includes comic legends Martin Short and Steve Martin, as well as pop phenomenon Selena Gomez. The show follows a group of unusual sleuths as they delve deep into the investigation of a murder that occurred in their own apartment building, traversing a maze of secrets and lies in their quest to unearth the truth. They encounter a slew of colorful individuals and unexpected twists and turns along the road, all while attempting to document their findings for their own true crime podcast. Only Murders in the Building is a masterclass in balancing tension and humor, with each episode keeping viewers thrilled while simultaneously provoking lots of laughs. The three stars have apparent chemistry, and their dynamic makes for a pleasant and entertaining watch that has garnered the program a devoted fan base.
2. Dopesick (2021)
Dopesick is a riveting drama that digs into the complex and deadly issue of opiate addiction in America. Dopesick, starring Michael Keaton, Peter Sarsgaard, and Rosario Dawson, delves into the opiate pandemic, from the pharmaceutical industry’s role in manufacturing and selling addictive medications to the consequences of addiction on individuals, families, and communities. The show provides a distressing peek into the lives of those suffering from addiction and the difficulties they confront in obtaining treatment and recovery. At the same time, it highlights the flaws in the healthcare system as well as the policies that allowed the crisis to escalate to the level of a national emergency. Dopesick is a must-see for anybody interested in understanding the impact of the opiate epidemic on American society, thanks to its uncompromising treatment of the topic.
3. The Great (2020)
Tony McNamara’s The Great is a witty and fast-paced retelling of Catherine the Great’s ascension to power, played brilliantly by Elle Fanning alongside Nicholas Hoult as her erratic husband, Peter III. McNamara, who received an Oscar nomination for co-writing The Favourite, brings his signature combination of biting commentary and lush scenery to The Great. The show is a cutting commentary on the world and a woman’s place that is still relevant today. Catherine’s ascent to power in 18th-century Russia during the Age of Enlightenment is portrayed in a smart and amusing way. However, if historical accuracy is important to you, The Great is not the show for you. The makers characterize it as “anti-historical,” implying that it takes liberties with historical events and personalities for the sake of entertainment value. With its smart writing and fast-paced action, the series provides sharp humor and satire against a lavish backdrop of historical clothes and settings.
4. PEN15 (2019)
PEN15 is a novel and innovative show that has quickly become a fan favorite. With humor and emotion, the series tackles the awkwardness and struggles of adolescence, portraying the essence of what it feels like to be a middle schooler in the year 2000. Maya Erskine and Anna Konkle’s performances as 13-year-old versions of themselves are fantastic, and the supporting ensemble of genuine 13-year-olds lends an authentic touch to the production. PEN15 is a unique treasure in the comedy genre, tackling difficult issues like puberty, sexuality, bullying, and mental health with delicacy and nuance. The series has received accolades for its realistic representation of adolescence, commitment to diversity, and honest and unflinching depiction of complex circumstances.
5. Pam & Tommy (2022)
Pam & Tommy is a gripping drama that transports viewers back in time to investigate Pamela Anderson’s turbulent and well-publicized relationship with Tommy Lee. The show goes into the couple’s lives during the time when their iconic sex tape was made public, providing an inside look at the fallout and media frenzy that ensued. The series has an excellent cast led by Lily James and Sebastian Stan, who plays Anderson and Lee, respectively. The show has gained critical accolades for its directing, writing, production design, and fascinating storyline. Pam & Tommy is a must-see for anyone searching for an entertaining and well-crafted biographical drama. It has ten Primetime Emmy Award nominations, including accolades for Outstanding Limited or Anthology Series and acting nominations for its stars.
6. 11.22.63 (2016)
11.22.63 is a Hulu television miniseries that debuted on February 15, 2016. It is based on Stephen King’s 2011 novel of the same name and features Jake Epping (James Franco), a high school English teacher from Lisbon, Maine, who travels back in time to 1960 in order to prevent John F. Kennedy’s killing. Jake’s trip begins when his friend Al Templeton (Chris Cooper) discovers a portal to the past in the rear of his cafe. Al is dying of cancer and is unable to fulfill his goal of preventing JFK’s assassination, so he hires Jake to travel back in time and finish the job. J. J. Abrams, Stephen King, Bridget Carpenter, and Bryan Burk executive produced the series, with Franco also serving as a producer in addition to his lead role. It has eight episodes and was well received by critics who commended its superb performances, production design, and faithfulness to King’s source material.
7. The Handmaid’s Tale (2017)
The Handmaid’s Tale is a dystopian drama series based on Margaret Atwood’s novel of the same name. The 2017 series is set in the fictitious totalitarian nation of Gilead, a futuristic version of the United States in which women face harsh servitude and tyranny. Gender roles, reproductive rights, and religious extremism are among the topics addressed in the show. Elisabeth Moss plays June Osborne, a woman who becomes a handmaid and is compelled to work as a surrogate mother for a wealthy family. The Handmaid’s Tale has received critical acclaim for its captivating performances, spectacular imagery, and intelligent consideration of complicated social and political concerns.
8. Harlots (2017)
Harlots is an 18th-century London period drama television series about two rival brothel proprietors, Margaret Wells (Samantha Morton) and Lydia Quigley (Lesley Manville). The show delves into the life of the brothel ladies, as well as the societal restraints and biases they confront as women in a patriarchal country. Throughout the three seasons of the show, viewers are treated to a fascinating look at Georgian London and its seedy underworld, including the politics of brothel ownership, competition between rival establishments, and the ongoing struggle against moralistic movements seeking to shut them down. Harlots was praised for its strong performances, particularly those of Morton and Manville, and its nuanced portrayal of women’s lives and experiences. Despite its critical acclaim, the streaming service Hulu canceled the show in 2019 after three seasons.
9. Love, Victor (2020)
Love, Victor is a Hulu-produced American teen comedy-drama series developed by Isaac Aptaker and Elizabeth Berger. The series debuted as a Hulu original series on June 17, 2020. It is based on and takes place in the same universe as the 2018 film Love, Simon. Victor, a Creekwood High School student battling with his sexual orientation, is played by Michael Cimino. He seeks advice from Simon, who is now in college, as he navigates the difficulties of growing up. Ana Ortiz, James Martinez, Isabella Ferreira, Mateo Fernandez, Rachel Naomi Hilson, Bebe Wood, George Sear, Mason Gooding, and Anthony Turpel also appear as extras in the series. Positive feedback was given to the program for its treatment of LGBTQ+ people and issues, as well as its emotional performances and candid depiction of high school life. It has received appreciation for its optimistic message and accessible narratives, as well as its ability to address difficult problems in a sensitive and meaningful manner.
10. Under the Banner of Heaven (2022)
Under the Banner of Heaven is a thought-provoking drama that examines the Mormon Church’s relationship with violence. The plot centers around the terrible murder of a young mother and her baby daughter in Utah, as well as the subsequent investigation by two detectives, Andrew Garfield, and Gil Birmingham. As the detectives dig deeper into the case, they learn that the two accused murderers are members of a radical offshoot of the Mormon Church and that their beliefs may have played a role in the crimes. Under the Banner of Heaven has stirred debate within the Mormon community, with some members disagreeing with how the church is portrayed and its history of bloodshed. The show’s creators, on the other hand, have defended their work as an honest and nuanced investigation of a complex topic, emphasizing their respect for the faith and its adherents.
In conclusion, Hulu has produced some of the streaming era’s most highly praised and popular shows. Hulu will continue to produce some of the most talked-about shows for years to come, owing to an ever-expanding library of original material and a dedication to bringing fresh and exciting stories to the screen. Hulu provides something for everyone, whether you’re looking for thought-provoking dramas, amusing comedies, or dramatic true-crime stories. So, what are you holding out for? Dive through their inventory today and find your new favorite show!