Set in the dystopian future of Gilead, the drama imagines a totalitarian society where environmental collapse and falling birth rates have led to the overthrow of democracy. Women are stripped of their rights, and those still able to conceive are forced into sexual servitude as “Handmaids” for the ruling elite.

The series stars Elisabeth Moss as June Osborne, a woman captured while trying to flee the regime and forced into life as a Handmaid.

What follows is a harrowing but compelling story of survival, resistance and quiet rebellion, as June navigates brutality, psychological control and moments of unexpected solidarity.

The cast also includes Yvonne Strahovski, Joseph Fiennes, Ann Dowd and Alexis Bledel, whose performances have been widely praised by critics and audiences alike.

Fans continue to rave about the show years after its debut. Sci-fi bloggers have described it as “amazing, fantastic, brilliantly acted and scripted,” adding that it is “one of the best shows I have seen in maybe decades” and calling it “a masterpiece of tension”.

On the Mumsnet forum, one viewer wrote: “Yes The Handmaid’s Tale needs time for decompression afterwards.

“It’s absolutely amazing, but you need to give it time to be absorbed. I loved series 1 and 2 – the opening scenes of series 2 are the best TV I’ve ever watched.”

While the series is often described as difficult viewing due to its themes of oppression, trauma and violence, many fans say that is precisely what makes it so powerful.

The show has been praised for its cinematography, haunting soundtrack and its ability to reflect contemporary anxieties about politics, gender and personal freedom.

In the UK, The Handmaid’s Tale is available to stream on Channel 4’s on-demand service, allowing viewers to watch all episodes at their own pace.

With multiple awards to its name, including several Emmys and Golden Globes, the series continues to attract new audiences who are discovering why so many fans insist it is one of the best television dramas ever made.