I. Introduction
The Handmaid’s Tale, based on the dystopian novel of the same name by Margaret Atwood, has captivated audiences globally since its debut in 2017. The show’s popularity, along with its numerous accolades, has propelled it into cultural relevance, sparking discussions on feminist issues, reproductive rights, and societal norms. Season 4, which dropped in April 2021, leaves fans with a burning question: How many episodes will season 5 have?
II. The Countdown Begins: Speculating How Many Episodes Handmaid’s Tale Season 5 Will Have
Previous seasons of Handmaid’s Tale had ten episodes each, making it a fair assumption that season 5 would replicate this formula. However, official sources have not confirmed the episode count for the upcoming series. Several rumors speculate that season 5 will only have eight episodes, while other fans predict an extended 12-episode season.
While the lack of clarity surrounding season 5’s episode count has left fans in a frenzy, some sources provide an insight, including Executive Producer Warren Littlefield’s recent statement suggesting the possibility of season 5 being a shorter season.
III. Why Handmaid’s Tale Season 5 Should Have More Episodes
The Handmaid’s Tale has always been character-driven, and season 4 took great pains to explore its powerhouse actors’ intricate characters. A larger episode count for season 5 would allow the show to delve deeper into the characters’ backgrounds. This could add more dimensions to the already complex characters, providing more opportunities for the audience to connect with them emotionally.
Moreover, a season with an extended episode count could offer more room for complex plot twists, which fans crave and appreciate. This build-up is what makes the show such a riveting experience to watch.
IV. Handmaid’s Tale Season 5 Rumors: Will There Be More Episodes This Time?
While certain fans hope for a longer season, the opposite viewpoint exists as well. Rumors suggest that season 5 may have only eight episodes, leading to a shorter season.
However, several factors could contribute to the lower episode count, particularly the COVID-19 pandemic’s effect on the entertainment industry. Colin Watkinson, a cinematographer for The Handmaid’s Tale, mentioned that filming for season 4 had to stop earlier than planned due to the pandemic’s restrictions.
V. A Shorter Handmaid’s Tale Season 5 Could Be Just What Fans Need
Although it may come as a disappointment for some, a shorter season may be an ideal way to avoid the show’s burnout while still providing quality content. In contrast, other shows benefit from shorter seasons, as evidenced by the success of Killing Eve, which airs eight episodes per season, allowing for superlative quality episodes every time.
Producing a shorter season could be strategically and creatively beneficial for the writers and characters’ development. It could lead to a more compact storyline with fewer filler episodes, which could save the franchise from stagnant plotlines and diminishing audiences.
VI. How Many Episodes Should Handmaid’s Tale Season 5 Actually Have?
With the current debate and rumors surrounding the fifth season, the ideal number of episodes for the new season remains an open question. However, we know that Atwood’s other novels have not been used yet. More episodes would enable the production team to flesh out these books’ plotlines, integrating them into the show’s narrative as it moves beyond its source material.
Alternatively, it is also worth mentioning that shows like Breaking Bad and Mad Men had their final season split into two halves, airing a smaller number of episodes each. This model could translate to a successful series finale for the Handmaid’s Tale.
VII. What the Number of Episodes for Handmaid’s Tale Season 5 Could Mean for the Show’s Future
The Handmaid’s Tale is a critically acclaimed, yet harrowing depiction of a dystopian future. Still, it fiercely resonates with its audience, so much that Hulu has renewed its option for a sixth season. It is vital to understand that the episode count could impact the show beyond its fifth season.
Having a shorter season could safeguard against diverging from the show’s central themes and ensure that the show stays on track in terms of storytelling. On the other hand, a longer season could add more nuance to the narrative, increasing the chances of attracting and retaining a more diverse and engaged audience.
VIII. Conclusion
As the fifth season looms, Handmaid’s Tale fans are in the dark about the number of episodes they can expect. While more episodes can provide an avenue for delivering compelling stories, fewer episodes can guarantee more precise and poignant storytelling. Whatever the episode count for season five, one thing is certain, fans of the show will be eagerly anticipating its next installment.