The dystopian drama introduced viewers to a number of the key characters including Elisabeth’s Offred, as well as Joseph Fiennes as Commander Fred Waterford and Yvonne Strahovski as his wife, Serena Joy.
The three took part in one of the most infamous scenes from the book during the first episode, the sex ritual which sees the Commander have sex with Offred, while she lies on an infertile Serena’s lap.
The stark scene was praised by viewers, many of which were well versed in the book.
One wrote on Twitter: “That sex scene was unbelievably harrowing” while another said: “the ceremony was just as bleak on screen as it was in the book.
“interesting to see how it affected serena joy afterwards.”
‘Cutest couple’ cry fans as Shane Filan & wife step out in style for summer gig
The episode also showed viewers how the Christian fundamentalist government of Gilead was formed in flashbacks, which also revealed the moment Elisabeth’s character was separated from her husband and little girl.
Tension was paramount throughout the episode, and for many it was a lot to deal with.
One wrote on Twitter: “Wow this is brilliant and terrifying”, while another said: “I keep forgetting to breathe through this”.
A third agreed, writing: “The #handmaidstale is an outstanding adaptation of the novel.
“A frightening Dystopian future, which is not too improbable to imagine.”
A fellow viewer added: “Holy crap #HandmaidsTale is good. Know that book inside out, yet still fresh, terrifying and so relevant.”
