20 TV Show Pilots That Are Totally Flawless

Few shows have ever started with such harrowing intensity as Bruce Miller's visceral dystopian drama The Handmaid's Tale. Throwing viewers into a world where fertile women are forced to bear children for wealthy, childless couples, the show's pilot is dark and emotionally bleak, but incredibly engaging.

Directed by Reed Morano, Offred focusses on the eponymous handmaid, played with tragic and powerful empathy by Elisabeth Moss, as she becomes accustomed to the changed world and attempts to grapple with mysterious memories. She encounters her fellow handmaids, and struggles with the horror of her new life.

Though far from an easy watch (the entire series is certainly one of the most horrific currently on-air), The Handmaid's Tale opens with such ferocity, creativity and unique power that it's close to impossible to look away from. It may be hard going, but it's also rewarding and arresting, making watching on a no-brainer.