If you’re captivated by character-driven dramas that unravel complex family dynamics, explore the tension between social classes and racial identities, and are built around a central mystery, then Hulu’s “Little Fires Everywhere” is a powerful and thought-provoking limited series. Based on the bestselling novel by Celeste Ng, it’s a visually rich and emotionally charged examination of motherhood, secrets, and the illusion of perfection.
What is “Little Fires Everywhere” about?
“Little Fires Everywhere” is set in the meticulously planned, affluent, and seemingly perfect suburban community of Shaker Heights, Ohio, in the late 1990s. The story begins with the dramatic image of the Richardson family home engulfed in flames, with hints that the fire was intentionally set by one of their own children. The series then flashes back several months to reveal the events leading up to this devastating event, centering on the intertwined fates of two vastly different families:
- The Richardsons: Led by Elena Richardson, a seemingly benevolent but deeply controlling journalist and mother who values order, rules, and appearances above all else. Her family includes her lawyer husband, Bill, and their four teenage children: Lexie, the popular and driven eldest; Trip, the charming jock; Moody, the sensitive and artistic younger son; and Izzy, the rebellious and artistic outsider who constantly clashes with her mother.
- The Warrens: The enigmatic and nomadic artist Mia Warren and her teenage daughter, Pearl. Mia is a free-spirited, talented photographer with a mysterious past, constantly moving from town to town. Pearl, craving stability and a sense of belonging, becomes drawn to the seemingly perfect Richardson family.
Elena, driven by a mix of genuine goodwill and a need to control, rents a property to Mia and Pearl, effectively intertwining their lives. As Pearl becomes enmeshed with the Richardson children, and Mia takes a job with the Richardsons, the stark differences in their values, parenting styles, and life experiences begin to create friction.
The central conflict ignites around a contentious custody battle for a Chinese-American baby, discovered abandoned at a fire station, whom Elena’s close friends are adopting. When Mia uncovers a connection to the baby’s biological mother, she becomes fiercely involved, putting her directly at odds with Elena and forcing both women to confront the secrets of their pasts and the true nature of their deeply held beliefs about motherhood, race, and identity. The series explores how even the smallest acts of rebellion or kindness can have “little fires everywhere,” leading to explosive consequences.
Why “Little Fires Everywhere” is a compelling watch:
- Powerful Performances: The series is anchored by the incredible chemistry and intense rivalry between its two lead actresses, delivering nuanced and captivating portrayals of complex women.
- Layered Storytelling: It’s a mystery that slowly burns, revealing secrets and motivations through flashbacks and character development, keeping viewers deeply engaged.
- Exploration of Timely Themes: The show delves into significant societal issues such as classism, racial identity, systemic privilege, female autonomy, and different facets of motherhood, sparking important conversations.
- Rich Character Studies: Beyond the main characters, the series meticulously develops its ensemble, allowing viewers to empathize with various perspectives, even those that clash.
- High Production Quality: The series boasts strong direction, beautiful cinematography that evokes the late 90s, and a compelling soundtrack.
- Critically Acclaimed: It received widespread praise for its writing, performances, and its ability to adapt a beloved novel while adding its own depth and resonance.
Where to Watch “Little Fires Everywhere”:
“Little Fires Everywhere” is a Hulu Original limited series. All eight episodes are exclusively available to stream on:
- Hulu
You can also purchase individual episodes or the full season on digital platforms such as:
- Amazon Prime Video
- Apple TV
- Google Play Movies & TV
- Fandango At Home (Vudu)
If you enjoyed “Little Fires Everywhere,” you might also like:
- Big Little Lies (HBO/Max): Another acclaimed limited series produced by Reese Witherspoon, also focusing on complex female characters, secrets, and a central mystery in an affluent community.
- Sharp Objects (HBO/Max): A dark, atmospheric mystery about a journalist returning to her troubled hometown to investigate murders, known for its psychological depth and exploration of family trauma.
- The Undoing (HBO/Max): A high-stakes psychological thriller with a gripping mystery and a focus on wealthy, complex characters whose lives unravel after a shocking event.
- Mare of Easttown (HBO/Max): A gritty, character-driven crime drama that explores the dark underbelly of small-town life and the heavy weight of personal trauma on a detective.
- Mrs. America (Hulu): A historical drama that explores the feminist movement of the 1970s and the backlash against the Equal Rights Amendment, with strong female leads and a focus on social and political clashes.