CNN Report on Hollywood’s Current Landscape
Hollywood studios and streaming services are currently averse to producing politically charged content. Producers are reconsidering liberal narratives, media companies are scaling back diversity efforts, and films like “The Apprentice,” which included critical narratives about President Trump, struggled for distribution in the U.S. last year.
The Significance of “The Handmaid’s Tale” Finale
This backdrop makes the release of “The Handmaid’s Tale” finale particularly noteworthy. The critically acclaimed Hulu series, which recently concluded, is distinctively and unapologetically political.
Overview of the Series
Based on Margaret Atwood’s novel from 1985, the series depicts a dystopian America that has morphed into Gilead, a totalitarian regime where women are viewed as property. The character of June Osborne, portrayed by Elisabeth Moss, serves as the “handmaid.”
Initial Expectations and Reactions
When the team started working on the show in 2016, they anticipated Hillary Clinton might become the first female president. Interviews reveal the cast’s shock at Trump’s unexpected victory, altering the show’s reception when it premiered in April 2017 during rising concerns about misogyny and bigotry.
Producers’ Insights
The creators embraced the show’s real-world relevance, with executive producer Warren Littlefield expressing concern about society’s drift towards Gilead. Recent sentiments reflect an even steeper decline, as he noted that Margaret Atwood’s fictional warning is increasingly resonant today.
Final Thoughts on Legacy and Future
While some viewers may have been discouraged by the show’s political themes, “The Handmaid’s Tale” thrived in this polarized environment, sparking meaningful conversations. Currently, a sequel series titled “The Testaments” is in the works, poised to explore the same potent questions: “Could it happen here?”
