We’re in an era of loaded content, which includes new shows on nearly every channel and streaming service. All that can leave you wondering what’s worth the investment. Let us help, as this series provides all the information you need to make an informed viewing decision. Today, it’s an adaptation of a racy novel set in the 1980s.
Series: Rivals
Where to Find It: All eight episodes are now streaming on Hulu and Disney+
What’s It About: This new show is an adaptation of the novel from Jilly Cooper that was released in 1988. The series itself is set in the 1980s and takes place in the fictional county of Rutshire in England, focusing on the lives and social interactions of the upper class. Namely, it focuses on Lord Tony Baddingham (David Tennant), who is trying to make a name for himself by running a successful TV network.
In order to make the biggest splash possible, Baddingham sets out to pluck the best talent. First, he sets his sights on a well-known interviewer, Declan O’Hara (Aidan Turner). Declan is frustrated by the limits of the BBC and jumps at the chance to have more creative control. In addition, Baddingham recruits a fierce producer from America, Cameron Cook (Nfessa Williams). Cameron comes in and seeks to shake things up and bring an edge to the network that will help it stand out with audiences.
But to maintain good standing, Baddingham is urged to bring on high-profile board members. In fact, he’s pressured to add his rival, Rupert Campbell-Black (Alex Hassell), to the board. When he’s rebuffed, Baddingham sets out to destroy his rival instead. But who will come out on top, and what will be the cost?
You Should Try It If: You’re a fan of the novel, a fan of the cast, or a fan of soapy period-set dramas with plenty of edge.
One Man’s Opinion of Rivals
This isn’t what you’d expect when you boot up a series on Disney+. This doesn’t hold back, especially when it comes to some racy content. The opening sequence takes place in an airplane bathroom and quickly gives you the feel that Rupert Campbell-Black is a playboy and doesn’t much care about following the rules or social norms. We see that play out through the rest of the pilot, too. He’s clearly meant to be the bad boy, but he’s hardly the only one.
There is a lot of tension and drama here. But there’s also a lot of soapy content and a lot of sexual drama. In fact, the closing montage of the pilot features several different hook ups occurring as the episode comes to a close. It gives you the feel for where the series is going and what to expect as an audience.
Aside from that, the story is interesting. I like Tennant, Turner, and Hassell in the lead roles. The way it all develops in the first two episodes pulls you into the world and makes you curious to see what’s going to happen. The episodes are about an hour, with all eight available to stream, making for a quick binge.