The term "drama" in television isn't restricted to a fixed genre. It spans across several genres—from sci-fi to comedy—bringing together viewers of different age groups and interests. But other than genres, drama television now spans across several streaming platforms as well.
Among all the great streaming options that viewers have today, Hulu ranks among the best; especially when it comes to dramas. From thrilling dystopian dramas like The Handmaid's Tale to laid-back comedies like Better Things, the platform has it all.
The Handmaid's Tale
In the past, there have been several adaptations of Margaret Atwood's dystopian drama. However, none of them have proven to be as good as this one. Although at times, its futuristic vision of a totalitarian society is hard to watch, it impressively unfolds itself like a page-turner of a book.
Starring Elisabeth Moss, the series is set in Gilead. What was once a part of the US, is now ruled by a fundamentalist regime with a strong patriarchal worldview. When faced with the disasters of falling birth rates, the violent regime forces women into sexual subjugation. But Offred is unwilling to comply with this unfair servitude.
Normal People
The growing catalog of teen dramas on streaming platforms is merely an outcome of the rise in demand for them. The downside of this, however, is the dwindling quality of shows in the genre. Thankfully, 2020 was a good year for teen dramas as it was for shows of other genres.
Ranking among the best coming-of-age shows of 2020, Normal People walks a viewer through the ups and downs, highs and lows of Marianne and Connell's relationship. It's their different backgrounds that initially drift them apart, but it's their ever-growing desire to be together that keeps bringing them back together.
Looking For Alaska
Based on John Green's 2005 novel of the same name, Looking For Alaska centers on Miles "Pudge" Halter, a new student at a boarding school. After a fateful encounter with a young girl named Alaska, Miles slowly falls for her. But as their relationship with each other and the ones around them further escalates, Miles gains a new perspective on his feelings for Alaska.
Casual
The offbeat humor of Casual may not be for everyone. But the sheer realism of its well-written characters is something that will resonate with most viewers.
At its fore is a bachelor brother, who lives with his newly divorced sister and her teen daughter. While struggling their way through insecurities and everyday issues, the brother-sister duo guides each other through their day-to-day snags.
It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia
Only a few comedy-dramas are able to stand the tests of time. It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia is one of them. Being more than a decade and a half old, the show still manages to uphold its gags and get some decent laughs out of its viewers. Not to mention, it's the longest-running live-action comedy series of all time.
The plot of the series is simple. It focuses on five friends who co-own an Irish pub. However, being raging alcoholics and egomaniacs, never do they work together and almost always find new ways to plot against one another.
You're The Worst
The relationship lessons buried deep in dark rom-coms may be hard to swallow, but they are necessary nonetheless. Giving out some crucial relationship advice along with a whole lot of comedy, You're The Worst is among the genre's best offerings.
Balancing sharp comedy with some mushy elements, the show tells the tale of Jimmy and Gretchen, who fatefully cross paths at a wedding. But being the self-centered and toxic individuals that they are, they struggle to stick together despite being in love.
Mrs. America
Starring Cate Blanchett, Mrs. America is a period drama that highlights the life of conservative activist Phyllis Schlafly, who led the protest against the ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment.
While the show's political underpinnings may divide viewers, its well-written storyline has the potential to bring them together. Moreover, the show also has a nostalgic appeal that it instills with its impressive period setup and 70s soundtracks.
Harlots
Inspired by The Covent Garden Ladies by British historian Hallie Rubenhold, Harlots is set in 18th century London. Its protagonist, Margaret Wells, is a brothel owner who struggles to balance her business life with her personal life as a mother of two girls.
Going well-beyond the titillating elements of its premise, Harlots immerses viewers in its period setup and inspires empathy for its complex characters.
Atlanta
In search of fame and fortune in Atlanta's hip hop scene, up-and-comer Alfred Miles teams up with his cousin, Earn (Donald Glover). Joining them on their journey is Darius, Alfred's right-hand man who's willing to do anything to help Alfred reach the next level. While the three try to break into the world of rap, Earn tries to reconcile his relationship with best friend Vanessa, who's also his daughter's mother.
Atlanta is television drama at its best. It has genuine comedy, excellent characters, and a dash of reality in its genre-bending premise. What more can a viewer ask for?
Better Things
In Better Things, Pamela Aldon plays Sam Fox, a mother of two divided between the pressures of working as an actress in the cut-throat Hollywood industry and raising her daughters as a single parent. Adding more heft to her juggles, she also looks after her aging mother.
Although marketed as a comedy-drama, Better Things offers a lot more than a few gags. For instance, it takes on the simple pitfalls of an average person and then presents it with the utmost sincerity. It's this groundedness to real-life that makes it extremely enjoyable.