Social distancing and shelter in place rules have lasted for much longer than originally anticipated. So, if you’re like me, you probably have watched a lot more TV than you’d care to admit. So grab a snack (probably some kind of baked bread if you’re really feeling the social isolation vibes) and get comfortable because these shows will inspire and motivate your inner feminist. All shows are available on Hulu.
1. The Handmaid’s Tale
Fair warning, this show is not uplifting. It’s incredibly well-done, riveting, and eye-opening, but if you are looking for a feel-good series to watch, this one is not it. Based on Margaret Atwood’s 1985 novel, the series takes place in the dystopia of Gilead, where women are treated as the property of the totalitarian state. The first season of the series follows the storyline of Atwood’s novel but veers off-book in the seasons to follow. In some ways, it’s eerily similar to aspects of conservative American politics.
2. Hillary
This documentary series chronicles the life of one of the most well-known political figures. The film premiered at the 2020 Sundance Film Festival and aims to fill in the “who really is she” that Hillary has always been scrutinized for. The series is artfully done, interweaving original film footage and photography from decades ago to present interviews with both the Clintons and those who have worked for and alongside them. If you’re politically-minded, interested in the inner-workings of the American government, or eager to see more women in the political arena, check this one out!
3. The Bold Type
This show, inspired by the life of Cosmopolitan former Editor-in-Chief Joanna Coles, follows the lives of three best friends as come into their own at feminist magazine Scarlet. Set in New York City, the show certainly has Sex and the City vibes. It tackles more pressing social and political issues, like bisexuality, women’s health (one character discovers she carries the BRCA1 gene), sexual equality, and racially-based microaggressions. Although the show definitely glamorizes entry-level fashion industry work, it’s a feel-good show that you’ll definitely binge!
4. Mrs. America
I actually stumbled across this show unexpectedly – I saw a sponsored ad for the series premiere while scrolling through my Instagram feed, and was immediately interested (my FBI agent knows me well). The show tells the true story of the fight to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment and the political backlash led by conservative Phyllis Schlafly (Cate Blanchett). Although only 3 episodes have been released so far, my biggest surprise is that the show’s main character is the politically-conservative and complex Schlafly, rather than Betty Friedan (Tracy Ullman), Gloria Steinman (Rose Byrne) or Shirley Chisholm (Uzo Aduba), who are all also featured in the series. Curious to see what happens in the upcoming episodes!
5. Little Fires Everywhere
Okay. Hands down, great show. When I saw that Reese Witherspoon was involved in the creation of a new series after Big Little Lies (which if you haven’t watched, please do so right now), I knew it would be worth watching. The show, also based on a novel, takes place in a suburban Ohio town in the late 90s and follows the lives of complex artist Mia Warren (Kerry Washington) and seemingly perfect Elena Richardson (Reese Witherspoon). The show closely examines race and class, while chronicling two very different mother’s choices to protect their families. If you’re a fan of Big Little Lies, it’s a must-watch!