Stunning New TV Show Achieves Near-Perfect Rotten Tomatoes Rating, Shattering Major TV Myth

Dame Jilly Cooper’s latest television venture, Rivals, demonstrates that when it comes to on-screen romance, it’s in vogue now more than ever.

Only Rivals launches with a candid scene featuring a man’s bare behind, mid-moment in an airplane restroom. This marks the beginning of an engaging eight-part series based on Jilly Cooper’s renowned novel, now streaming on Hulu. In the 1980s, Cooper dominated the ‘bonkbuster’ genre, and we are now witnessing these escapades play out on our screens.

The initial shock of a bare bottom is merely a glimpse of what’s to come. Throughout the series, viewers experience numerous provocative sex scenes, an extravagant New Year’s Eve orgy, and a game of nude tennis showcasing full-frontal male nudity. Virtually all characters in this expansive cast partake in passionate encounters (yes, even our beloved doctor).

Presented in a refreshingly unapologetic manner, the show often portrays women as objects within a political context while men engage in bravado, both literally and figuratively. It’s a nostalgic nod to the 1980s.

This approach has surprisingly led to successful reception. Presently, Rivals holds an impressive 95% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, earning five-star accolades from esteemed outlets such as The Guardian and The Daily Mail. Striking a chord with viewers and critics alike, the series has shattered the misconception that audiences are disinterested in sex scenes on television.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iSQhpZX6PBk

Rivals | Official Trailer | Hulu (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iSQhpZX6PBk)

But why has it taken this long to realize? Until recently, many binge-watchers expressed indifference towards visual intimacy. A report last year indicated that nearly half of Gen Z audiences preferred reduced sexual content in their programming — ironic, considering their fandom for series like Euphoria.

You might think, “Jasmine, those in their twenties won’t engage with this show,” but that’s a misconception. Erin Maxwell from LA Weekly remarked that Rivals is a “risqué romp filled with clever humor and outstanding performances, blending conflict and romance to craft a captivating period piece.”

Lacy Baugher Milas from Paste echoed this sentiment, calling the series “a lavish tribute to the golden age of television.” Social media is buzzing with fans sharing enthusiasm, with countless clues that interest spans generations.

There’s been a distinct lack of Aidan Turner on my screen of late and I can see now what an oversight that is #Rivals pic.twitter.com/AwM2qfkJva

— Vanessa || Chicago 10 (@WaisChoice) October 21, 2024

Rivals on Disney Plus… let me put you on

— babyk (@yuungflava) October 21, 2024

Rivals indicates a societal shift in our views towards sexuality, and I’ve pieced together the reasons.

Using my experience as a viewer for illustration — I possess an open mind regarding on-screen intimacy, yet only when executed meaningfully. A solo man climbing to the top through sheer exertion typically fails to excite me. Like many, I consider it imperative that sexual content serves the narrative; it should not be gratuitous, and ideally should depict women deriving pleasure too.

So, why am I utterly infatuated with Rivals, and what elevates it as one of the year’s standout series? Undoubtedly, the cast is packed with Britain’s finest talent, and the intertwining storylines (like Freddy and Lizzie’s romantic journey) are artfully crafted. However, it’s the treatment of sexual themes that captivates me deeply.

In essence, Rivals operates without restraint regarding sexual encounters. There’s no shaming — anyone can connect with whomever they choose, and opportunities for stumbling upon encounters abound. Envision it as a David Attenborough documentary, but centered around British aristocrats in a country estate.

Rupert Campbell-Black in Rivals — Available on Disney+

Moreover, the act of copulation doesn’t inherently imply “sexy.” It encompasses routine obligation, dominant behaviors, and often miscommunication among individuals struggling to connect. In a world crafted by Jilly Cooper, where sexuality flows freely, it becomes profoundly significant.

By the culmination of Episode 8, viewers have experienced every facet of affection, desire, and physical intimacy, emerging enriched from the journey. You may find yourself giggling at the initial glimpse of male nudity, yet after witnessing an array of female nudity, clarity emerges — highlighting that humanity can be quite flawed.

Rather than shunning Rivals for its boldness, we should commend it for offering a perspective that encourages us to embrace sexuality. In reality, many of us engage in similar (and often more outrageous) behaviors behind closed doors. Rather than merely contemplating the allure of sex, let’s indulge in the thought of witnessing more.

Currently, Rivals is available for streaming on Hulu. UK viewers can also catch it on Disney+, so be sure to check upcoming programming on that service.

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