“The Handmaid’s Tale: Hulu Show vs. Book – Examining the Biggest Differences”

In the world of television adaptations, there is always a debate over how faithful a show remains to its source material. Hulu’s hit series “The Handmaid’s Tale” has been praised for its gripping storytelling and powerful performances, but how does it compare to Margaret Atwood’s original novel?

The biggest differences between the Hulu show and the book lie in the expanded world-building and character development that the series has undertaken. While the novel focuses primarily on Offred’s perspective as a handmaid in the dystopian society of Gilead, the show delves deeper into the lives of other characters and explores their backstories in more detail.

One major difference is the character of Serena Joy, played by Yvonne Strahovski in the show. In the book, Serena is portrayed as a bitter and resentful woman who plays a key role in the oppression of the handmaids. However, the show delves into her past as a feminist activist and reveals her complex motivations, adding depth to her character.

Another significant difference is the portrayal of the Commander, played by Joseph Fiennes. In the book, he is a shadowy figure who holds power over Offred, but in the show, he is given a more humanizing treatment as his relationship with Offred becomes more nuanced and complicated.

Overall, while the Hulu show remains faithful to the core themes and messages of Atwood’s novel, it also takes creative liberties in order to expand upon the world of Gilead and flesh out its characters. Fans of the book may appreciate the added depth and complexity that the show brings to the story, while others may prefer the simplicity and ambiguity of the original text. Either way, “The Handmaid’s Tale” continues to spark discussion and debate as viewers compare and contrast the two mediums.