Beyond the Bear: Hulu’s Hidden Gems and Unforgettable Originals
While Netflix may have become synonymous with streaming originals, Hulu quietly emerged as a powerhouse in the world of television, offering a diverse and critically acclaimed library of both original content and network partnerships. This, combined with its carefully curated selection of series and films, makes it a haven for viewers seeking quality entertainment.
From the dramatic intensity of "The Handmaid’s Tale", which made history as the first streaming series to win an Emmy for Outstanding Drama Series, to the gut-wrenching realism of "The Bear" and its 10 Emmy wins in 2023, Hulu has consistently delivered television that resonates. But there’s much more to discover beyond these critically acclaimed titles.
Here’s a deep dive into some of the best shows currently streaming on Hulu, showcasing the platform’s remarkable range and commitment to compelling storytelling:
Comedy and Heart:
- "English Teacher" (FX): This heartwarming comedy, starring Brian Jordan Alvarez, focuses on the unique challenges and triumphs of an English teacher in Austin, Texas. The show tackles the realities of the teaching profession with humor and heart, presenting adults as "often just as lost as the kids they teach."
- "Only Murders in the Building" (Hulu Original): This comedic caper follows an unlikely trio of true-crime podcast fans – Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez – as they try to solve a murder in their Upper West Side apartment building. Season 4 promises even more star power, with the addition of Eugene Levy, Kumail Nanjiani, Tina Fey, Melissa McCarthy, Zach Galifianakis, and Eva Longoria to the mix.
- "Solar Opposites" (Hulu Original): This animated sci-fi comedy from creators Justin Roiland and Mike McMahan is a hilarious exploration of the clash between alien and human culture. The series, now in its fifth season, tackles heavy themes like existentialism and the human condition with a distinctive brand of dark humor and a surprisingly optimistic outlook.
- "Abbott Elementary" (ABC): Created by and starring Quinta Brunson, this award-winning mockumentary follows the daily lives of a group of dedicated teachers at a struggling Philadelphia public school. The show tackles social commentary with a light touch, showcasing not only the challenges that come with underfunding but also the passion and creativity of educators who go above and beyond for their students.
True Crime and Mystery:
- "At Witt’s End" (Hulu Original): This four-part docuseries dives into the unsolved disappearance and death of 19-year-old Melissa Witt in 1994, offering a chilling glimpse into the toll a cold case takes on a community.
- "Marvel’s Hit-Monkey" (Hulu Original): This surprisingly compelling animated series follows Hit-Monkey, a snow monkey seeking revenge in the Tokyo underworld, guided by the spirit of a former assassin. Season two picks up where the first season left off, offering a thrilling blend of action, humor, and unexpected emotional depth.
- "Under the Bridge" (Hulu Original): Starring Riley Keough and Lily Gladstone, this haunting miniseries investigates the brutal murder of a 14-year-old girl in a small Canadian town. The series, based on Rebecca Godfrey’s acclaimed book, delivers a chilling reminder of the darkness that can lurk beneath the surface of seemingly ordinary communities.
Historical Dramas and Documentaries:
- "Shōgun" (FX on Hulu): This epic historical drama, based on James Clavell’s beloved novel, transports viewers to 16th-century feudal Japan, where political intrigue and complex alliances paint a captivating and visually stunning portrait of a turbulent time.
- "Black Twitter: A People’s History" (Hulu Original): Drawing from WIRED senior writer Jason Parham’s acclaimed 2021 cover story, this docuseries explores the cultural significance and impact of Black Twitter, showcasing its role as a powerful force in shaping social movements and conversations.
- "Futurama" (Hulu Original): The beloved animated space odyssey, created by Matt Groening and David X. Cohen, is back with a new season after a decade-long hiatus. "Futurama" blends cutting-edge humor with sci-fi satire, delivering clever social commentary and iconic characters in a world that feels both futuristic and strangely familiar.
- "Cult Massacre: One Day in Jonestown" (Hulu Original): This captivating documentary provides a fresh perspective on the tragic events of November 18, 1978, when over 900 members of Jim Jones’ Peoples Temple cult died in a mass suicide.
- "Feud: Capote vs. the Swans" (FX on Hulu): This second season of the Ryan Murphy-produced anthology series delves into the volatile relationship between Truman Capote and the "Swans," a group of influential women he depicted in his unfinished novel, "Answered Prayers." The show features a star-studded cast, including Tom Hollander, Naomi Watts, Diane Lane, and Chloë Sevigny, and captures the captivating dynamics of social circles and literary rivalries.
Dark Comedies and Unique Storytelling:
- "Queenie" (Hulu Original): This poignant dramedy, based on Candice Carty-Williams’ bestselling novel, follows a Jamaican-British young woman navigating the complexities of relationships, family, and cultural identity.
- "Such Brave Girls" (Hulu Original): Created by and starring Kat Sadler, this darkly comedic series centers around a dysfunctional family struggling to cope with the aftermath of their father’s departure. The show’s humor is both dark and relatable, offering a glimpse into the messy and often hilarious realities of family dynamics.
- "The Other Black Girl" (Hulu Original): This horror-comedy follows a young, Black book editor, Nella Rogers, who experiences a series of unsettling events after another Black woman, Hazel-May McCall, is hired as an assistant. The suspenseful plot and witty dialogue make this an intriguing and thought-provoking watch.
Exceptional Television Partnerships:
- "The Great" (Hulu Original): This irreverent and cleverly written historical comedy, created by Tony McNamara (The Favourite, Poor Things), offers a delightfully satirical take on the rise of Catherine the Great. Elle Fanning and Nicholas Hoult are brilliant as Catherine and Tsar Peter III, respectively, bringing wit and humor to the Russian court.
- "Fargo" (FX on Hulu): Noah Hawley’s critically acclaimed anthology series, inspired by the Coen brothers’ classic film, features a new cast and a new story each season. The series, known for its high-quality production and stellar acting, boasts a long list of acclaimed stars, including Billy Bob Thornton, Martin Freeman, Kirsten Dunst, and Chris Rock.
- "Atlanta" (FX on Hulu): This groundbreaking series, created by and starring Donald Glover, follows the journey of two cousins, Earn and Alfred (aka Paper Boi), as they navigate the Atlanta music scene. The show is both poignant and surreal, showcasing Glover’s unique ability to blend dark humor, social commentary, and unforgettable storytelling.
- "What We Do in the Shadows" (FX on Hulu): This hilarious mockumentary from Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi follows a group of vampires living in Staten Island, showcasing their struggles with modern life and navigating relationships in a world that no longer fears them. The show’s quirky humor and lovable characters make it a delightful binge-worthy option.
Documentaries and Food:
- "Taste the Nation With Padma Lakshmi" (Hulu Original): This exploration of American food culture, hosted by Padma Lakshmi, blends culinary adventures with social and cultural insights, taking viewers on an enriching journey across the country.
- "Dopesick" (Hulu Original): This limited series, created by Danny Strong, explores the devastating impact of the opioid crisis, focusing on the role of Purdue Pharma, Richard Sackler, and OxyContin. The series features powerful performances from Michael Keaton and Michael Stuhlbarg, delivering a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of a real-world crisis.
- "Reservation Dogs" (FX on Hulu): This Peabody Award-winning series, created by Taika Waititi and Sterlin Harjo, offers a unique and humorous look at Indigenous life, following four Native American teenagers dreaming of escaping their lives on an Oklahoma reservation. The show features a predominantly Indigenous cast and crew, presenting a fresh perspective on cultural identity and community.
Hulu’s diverse and innovative lineup solidifies its position as a leading force in streaming entertainment. The platform is more than just another source for your next TV obsession; it’s a gateway to thought-provoking stories, unforgettable characters, and a commitment to showcasing the creative brilliance of diverse voices. So, if you’re seeking compelling television that pushes boundaries, challenges perspectives, and provides moments of laughter, reflection, and everything in between, be sure to check out what Hulu has to offer.
