While Netflix is often recognized for pioneering original programming in the streaming realm, it was Hulu that initiated the trend earlier with its launch of original shows like The Morning After in 2011. Following this, Hulu continued to carve out its place in television history by achieving remarkable accolades, such as winning the Emmy for Outstanding Drama Series for The Handmaid’s Tale in 2017, a mark of excellence that set a precedent in the industry. The streamer has maintained high entertainment standards, boasting critically acclaimed series such as The Bear, awarded 11 Emmys in 2024, and the record-setting Shōgun, which garnered an impressive 18 Emmy wins in a single season. As Hulu navigates an increasingly crowded market filled with competition, it distinctively showcases an adept curation of original content and partnerships, including a collection of FX titles, solidifying its stature as a net provider of high-quality viewing experiences.
Among the content worth noting on Hulu is Interior Chinatown, a meta-comedy-crime series following Willis Wu (Jimmy O. Yang), who is a waiter aspiring to escape his mundane life by envisioning himself as a background actor in a fictional police drama. The narrative takes an intriguing turn when Wu becomes embroiled in a local kidnapping investigation led by detective Lana Lee (Chloe Bennet), uncovering secrets about his family. This uniquely layered storytelling is echoed in series like What We Do in the Shadows, a comedy that began as a New Zealand mockumentary about a group of vampires but has since become a hit series set in Staten Island, humorously capturing the struggles of its supernatural, yet often lazy, characters. Additionally, the Spanish-language series La Máquina features an aging boxer (Gael García Bernal) who is urged by his friend (Diego Luna) to make a final comeback, weaving in themes of sacrifice and the gritty underbelly of the sport.
The dramatics and rivalries in storytelling are further exemplified in Rivals, where David Tennant stars as a privileged lord in a tale of class tension reminiscent of classic soap operas. The show combines campy elements with social commentary on power dynamics, making it both a humorous and insightful watch. Similarly, How to Die Alone follows Mel (Natasha Rothwell), a JFK Airport worker who reevaluates her life after a near-death experience. This series balances humor and poignant themes, showcasing the multifaceted nature of Hulu’s original programming that often addresses deep, life-altering topics in a comedic light.
In the realm of true crime drama, Hulu has deepened its explorative narratives with shows like Only Murders in the Building, where established sitcom icons Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez play amateur sleuths creating a podcast while solving a murder mystery. The series continues to expand its star-studded guest list across its seasons, adding depth and excitement. Then there is the gripping docuseries At Witt’s End, delving into the unsolved case of Melissa Witt’s murder, merging intimate storytelling with gripping suspense. Such series grapple with real-life crises while imbibing a personal touch that elevates the viewing experience. On the lighter side of things, animated offerings like Solar Opposites and Hit-Monkey indulge in comedic narratives, albeit through fantastical lenses surpassing mere silliness.
Reflecting on narratives of struggle and survival during the Holocaust, We Were the Lucky Ones narrates the tale of the Kurc family, emphasizing themes of resilience amidst war-torn settings. This poignant historical drama underlines Hulu’s capability in delivering serious and impactful themes through its diverse catalog. Additionally, shows like The Bear delve into the high-pressure culinary world, blending drama and dark comedy, fostering an atmosphere of urgency and emotional depth that resonates with both critics and viewers alike. The show serves as an incredible portrayal of grief and personal evolution amid communal strife, thus carving a niche for itself with accolades to affirm its quality.
Last but not least, Hulu’s roster incorporates explorations of unique cultural identities with series like Queen, portraying the life of Queen Jenkins, a British-Jamaican woman navigating love and familial ties in modern society. Additionally, Black Twitter: A People’s History chronicles the social media platform’s cultural significance, offering an enlightening glimpse into the socio-political movements knitted tightly with humorous, heartfelt experiences from the Black community online. Such explorations, alongside compelling cinematic storytelling in The Handmaid’s Tale, continue to reflect the cultural zeitgeist and trends.
As Hulu evolves its programming strategy, it embraces a rich tapestry of series that resonate emotionally and intellectually with its audience. The coming seasons hold promise, not just in maintaining the momentum of its existing successful series, but also in expanding the horizon of diverse narratives that challenge societal norms and encourage critical dialogue among viewers. Whether through gripping dramas, insightful documentaries, or heartwarming comedies, the streaming giant crystallizes its commitment to quality storytelling that engages, provokes thought, and entertains. In a competitive landscape, Hulu staunchly asserts its position as a versatile purveyor of innovative and original content.
