There are some stories that feel eternally relevant, and The Handmaid’s Tale — for better and worse — is one of them. Margaret Atwood’s 1985 novel was downright prescient upon release, and it’s only grown more chilling as life moves to imitate art. Hulu’s adaptation likewise came at what seemed to be the perfect time, as women’s rights in America were eroded before our very eyes. But what started as a timely exploration of dystopia felt increasingly depressing as the series scored one season renewal after another.
Nearly 10 years and six seasons later, there’s a sense that The Handmaid’s Tale has overstayed its welcome. It’s one of the decade’s most iconic shows, but how far can it stretch its story before it starts beating a dead horse? The Handmaid’s Tale arguably lost its spark long ago, but this tale of struggle and misery just got a second life on Hulu.
