Watch Reprisal

Reprisal, a 2019 original Hulu series, is a neo-noir revenge thriller that follows the story of Doris Quinn (Abigail Spencer), a woman seeking retribution against a gang of violent and shady individuals who left her for dead years earlier. The show explores themes of power, betrayal, and gender as Doris transforms into a fierce and savvy avenger, determined to take down her enemies by any means necessary.

While the plot begins with a seemingly straightforward revenge narrative, it quickly becomes apparent that there is much more at play than meets the eye. As the story unfolds, viewers are introduced to a diverse cast of characters, each with their own motivations and secrets. The show jumps back and forth through time, incorporating flashbacks and dream sequences that add depth and complexity to the characters and their relationships.

At the center of the story is Spencer's character, Doris. She is a complex and enigmatic figure, who reemerges in the criminal underworld years after the attack that left her scarred and traumatized. Doris is a master manipulator who uses her intellect and guile to gain the upper hand over her adversaries. Her journey is one of empowerment, as she sheds her victimhood and transforms into a powerful figure who demands respect and fear from those around her.

As the series progresses, Doris encounters a colorful cast of characters, each with their own stories and agendas. Among them is Joel Kelly (Rodrigo Santoro), a small-time crook who becomes embroiled in Doris's scheme; Katherine Harlow (Madison Davenport), a former member of the gang who betrayed Doris; and the Banished Brawlers, a group of motorcycle-riding outlaws who serve as Doris's muscle.

One of the most striking aspects of Reprisal is its visual style. The show is set in a fantastical world that combines vintage Americana with an edgy, modern aesthetic. The costumes are bold and theatrical, and the set design is both gritty and dreamlike. The show's use of color is particularly noteworthy, as it employs a vivid palette of reds, blues, and purples to create a vivid and surreal world that is both appealing and disorienting.

In addition to its visual appeal, Reprisal is also notable for its exploration of gender and power dynamics. The show features a predominantly female cast, with women occupying positions of power and agency. The characters are not defined by their relationships to men, and instead are portrayed as multifaceted individuals with their own motivations and desires. The show's overt feminism is refreshing and timely, particularly in a genre (crime drama) that has traditionally been male-dominated.

Overall, Reprisal is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant series that subverts expectations and challenges viewers to think deeply about power and agency. Its complex characters, thematic depth, and genre-bending approach make it a standout among recent television offerings.

Reprisal is a series that ran for 1 seasons (10 episodes) between December 6, 2019 and on Hulu