This Hulu series chronicles the history of the Equal Rights Amendment from its inception in the 70s thru the Reagan era. Cate Blanchett is, of course, compelling as Phyllis Schlafly, the stern woman who led the movement against the ERA. After introducing her, each episode features one of the other leaders FOR the movement. They’re not solo profiles, they still interact with the others: Gloria Steinem (Rose Byrne), Betty Friedan (Tracy Ullman), Bella Abzug (Margo Martindale), Jill Ruckelshaus (Elizabeth Banks) and Shirley Chisholm (Uzo Aduba). While all of the performances are wonderful, Aduba is especially touching and powerful in the “Shirley” episode. This is one long history lesson with the various political subplots and a few glimpses into their personal lives. The period is enacted effectively (with real news footage sprinkled throughout) and the conflicts are given some complexity. Overall, it’s a very educational series featuring a powerhouse cast. NOTE: The Virginia Legislature celebrating the passing of the ERA is the last visual in the show. (9 one-hour episodes)
(4 / 5)