Television shows continue to move away from the conservative, if the sex and violence-ridden Game Of Thrones’ wild popularity is anything to go by. So what better way is there to attract an audience than a show that follows the trend?
Hulu has begun promotion for their upcoming original series, Harlots, which is set to premiere March 29, on Hulu. The show is set in Georgian London (the perfect excuse for the most lavish of sets and costumes) and focuses on prostitutes of the 18th century.
Fun fact: in contrast to the attention focused on human rights issues in the sex trafficking industry today, being a whore back in 1763 London offered a girl more than marriage – the chance for upward mobility, independence and even home ownership. During this time, one in five women were prostitutes, with many choosing the path for themselves.
Playing on this, Harlots uses the female perspective to examine the economics, rivalries and family dynamics of the era’s sex workers. The series follows the rivalry between the madam Margaret Wells (Samantha Morton) and Lydia Quigley (Lesley Manville), and the inevitable involvement of Wells’ daughters Charlotte (Jessica Brown Findlay) and Lucy (Eloise Smyth) in the business.
Watch the first official trailer for Harlots below and if you’re impressed, you have Alison Owen and Debra Hayward to thank, as they’re the executive producers behind the scenes. Moira Buffini is responsible for writing the series.
Women in front of and behind the camera, submerged within a story about prostitution? Sounds exciting and dangerous. Make sure to catch the premiere March 29 on Hulu!
#Peace.Love.Harlots
