Watch Fanny Hill

Fanny Hill is a British period drama television series that premiered in 2007 on Acorn TV. The series is based on the 1748 novel with the same name by John Cleland and is set in the 18th century England. The story follows the life of Fanny Hill (Rebecca Night), a naive but courageous young girl who escapes to London from a poverty-stricken existence in the country. Her journey begins when she is lured into a life of prostitution, and Fanny quickly learns how to survive in the harsh and unforgiving world of brothels, bawdy houses, and clandestine assignations. Despite the challenges and hardships that she faces, Fanny retains her sense of humor and her compassion for others, ultimately emerging as a strong, independent woman.

One of the most compelling aspects of Fanny Hill is its exploration of female sexuality and the complex power dynamics at play in the world of brothels and prostitution. The series is frank and explicit in its portrayal of sex, but it never feels gratuitous or titillating. Rather, sex is depicted as an integral part of Fanny's journey towards self-discovery and empowerment, and as a means of survival in a society that offers few other options to women in her position.

Rebecca Night delivers a powerful, nuanced performance as Fanny, capturing the character's vulnerability, intelligence, and determined spirit. She is supported by an outstanding cast, including Alison Steadman as Mrs. Brown, Fanny's madam, and Emma Stansfield as Phoebe, a fellow prostitute who becomes Fanny's closest friend and confidante. The relationships between these women are complex and fraught with contradictions, as they navigate a world in which they are both oppressed and empowered by their sexuality.

The production values of Fanny Hill are also noteworthy, with gorgeous costumes, sets, and cinematography that transport viewers back to 18th century England. The series does not shy away from the gritty realities of life in London at the time, and the attention to detail in the period dress and sets is impressive.

While Fanny Hill is undeniably a mature-themed series with strong sexual content, it is also an intelligent and thought-provoking examination of a historical era that is often romanticized or sanitized in popular culture. The series is not afraid to depict the harsh realities of poverty, class inequality, and gender oppression that defined life in 18th century England, and it is especially successful in its portrayal of how these social structures impacted women's lives and choices.

Overall, Fanny Hill is a powerful and engaging series that will appeal to fans of period dramas, as well as those interested in exploring an often-overlooked aspect of women's history. The series is a showcase for the talents of its cast and crew, and it succeeds in balancing sensuality with substance, resulting in a satisfying viewing experience.