A Peek Into: The Handmaid’s Tale

At first glance at the trailer I knew I had to follow this TV-show. This was originally a bestseller novel written by Margaret Atwood back in the mid 1980’s. I haven’t read it myself but I recognise her name and remember having heard good things about her work. This show has got me hooked from the first episode. It’s all so interestingly infuriating – what is happening in the show that is – and although I can never ever see this happening in our world, just imagine if it did (I guess some would argue that it’s close to how it used to be back before women’s rights and all). Anyway, I find it to be a very intriguing story.

General Information

Cast: Elisabeth Moss, Alexis Bledel, Joseph Finnes & more
Director: Bruce Miller
Duration: About 45 minutes pr. episode
Watch it here: HBO Nordic (for Danes)

So what is it about?

This tale takes place in a dark and scary, way too near, dystopian future where a religious right-wing group has taken over the government of the United States. Don’t think the future in this tale turns into the old days with no cars, or electricity or guns. No, no, that is still all there it’s “just” the way the society is – that has changed – that has gone back to the old days. The main focus of this society is infertility which is why handmaids are needed, at least according to the new government. Handmaid’s are, in this new society, forced to live with a ‘commander’ and his wife. Where they once a month have a ritual, where they cite a verse of the bible, and then the handmaiden basically gets raped. Although, to them (the couple and the new society) it’s all part of a higher purpose. This tale’s main character is Offred, literally meaning belonging to the man Fred. She used to have a husband, a career, a child and rights… (which we are told in flashbacks). She’s not used to not being allowed to have an opinion, and it’s a constant battle for her to keep her mouth shut and survive another day.

Watch it if…

You like dramas and great acting! But also, of course, if this sort of story might interest you. But be ware that it might leave you somewhat angry, at least that’s how I feel sometimes. I just get so angry at how they treat women, it’s upsetting. But that’s part of why the story is so good – because it really makes you think. It’s also already been approved for a second season, yay!

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 8/10

Have you seen it? ?

(Photo credit: Hulu)