The Handmaid’s Tale has done a fantastic job of horrifying us with a grim look at how a dystopian society where women are nothing but disposable commodities works. The Hulu original series is not just fascinating, but many consider it particularly relevant to today’s society. Here are a few shows exploring similar themes. If you’re obsessed with The Handmaid’s Tale, you’ll probably very much enjoy these 10 offerings.
Station Eleven (2021)
Set in a post-apocalyptic future, Station Eleven follows survivors of a devastating pandemic as they’re trying to rebuild society. This miniseries came out last year, as restrictions from our real-life pandemic began to lift. You might think “too soon,” but the HBO show is actually based on a 2014 novel, not the events of 2020.
Black Mirror (2011)
Charlie Brooke’s anthology series takes a grim look at the not-so-distant future and the effects technology may have on our society. From cruel and unusual punishments of prisoners to stories of how online ratings affect us professionally, each episode of this series shows a new and frightening possibility for our future.
The Plot Against America
This HBO miniseries is an alternative history drama exploring what would have happened if a fascist had become the president of the United States. It tells the story through the perspective of a Jewish family. With an all-star ensemble cast including Morgan Spector, John Turturro and Winona Ryder, this series is well worth checking out.
Alias Grace (2017)
Also based on a Margaret Attwood novel, Alias Grace tells the story of a convicted murderer who eventually earns a pardon. The show does a great job of portraying the struggles of women during the 19th Century.
3% (2016)
This Brazilian dystopian thriller follows the trials of impoverished 20-year-olds as they try to pass several tests. Whoever passes all the increasingly difficult challenges becomes part of society’s elite and gets to live surrounded by riches and luxury.
Harlots (2017)
Harlots is an Amazon original period drama where women fighting for their right to independence take center stage. Set in 18th-century London, the show is focused on the lives and struggles of women forced to work in the world’s oldest profession. Starring Eloise Smyth, the show had a three-season run before its untimely cancellation.
Dollhouse (2009)
With Eliza Dushku in the lead, Dollhouse is probably the single most underrated series out there. The premise is centered around people who signed up to have their memories erased and treated like living dolls. Each character receives separate personalities as they go on different types of assignments, mostly the sex-work kind of assignments.
Westworld (2016)
Considered one of the best Sci-Fi shows out there, Westworld explores a not-so-distant future where the rich can spend their free time visiting a theme park staffed by human-like robots. It’s an interesting exploration of consciousness and humanity. There are 4 seasons out, and we’re hoping HBO will renew the show for a 5th.
The Man In The High Castle (2014)
How would today’s world look like had Hitler won WW2? That’s the question this series is trying to answer. The show’s four seasons provide an intriguing look into an alternative reality where the Nazis rose to worldwide power.
Do you have any other recommendations for TV Shows like The Handmaid’s Tale? Let us know in the comments below.
