Critic Reviews

Consistently been one of TV's top dramas of the last few years. ... The plot [is] more intricate (and enthralling) than filigree. Yet, the storylines — involving heist, blackmail and arson in just the first three episodes — merely pay homage to the heart-wrenching themes of weaponized sexuality and the shackles of status.

It’s admirably lighthearted, and much more kinetic than the typical period piece. The show’s largely played for dramedy and candy-colored history, all pastel set design and elaborate costumes that make everyone look like the Bride of Bowie Frankenstein. But the cheerful casualness defies a tough, battle-hardened heart.

The first two episodes effectively set up the larger conflict that’s brewing, but they also revel in the colorful cast.

In its third season, “Harlots” maintains everything that has made it occasionally difficult to watch – the societal injustice, the violence towards women, the massive cast of characters – but those aspects are what makes this series worthwhile since they also pay off with insight, spirit, and cheeky humor.

Hulu's odd but engrossing new drama about life inside an 18th-century London brothel.

It’s a bawdy, funny, gritty, and at times moving drama that flies in the face most of the period costume dramas we’ve seen on TV over the years.

Harlots is unsparing and sympathetic, able to find humor in its characters’ romps and compassion for the profession’s tragedies.

It sometimes feels structured more like a British soap opera than a prestige-TV miniseries. But it’s fun nevertheless to engage with the characters of Harlots, who are vividly written, outspoken, and frank.

Any potential discomfort one may have with the subject is soon overwhelmed by the spirited intelligence and sharp style with which this series is executed.

“Harlots” skips with a rebellious sense of joy this season, even though would-be pimps led by Isaac Pincher (Alfie Allen) descend on their tiny gynocracy intent upon stealing from these female entrepreneurs by threatening violence. ... But if the message must be harsh, at the very least the writers and directors help it go down with attitude and elegance.