The Handmaid's Tale - The Bridge - Advance Preview

The Handmaid’s Tale “The Bridge” was directed by Kate Dennis with the teleplay by Eric Tuchman, whose other credits include Stitchers, Beauty and the Beast, Alphas, and Eureka – not to mention Dr Quinn, Medicine Woman! This is the second last episode of the season, and as you’d expect, things start to get intense. There are two brutal scenes back to back that help to reinforce many of the themes that the show has been highlighting.

The episode begins with another gathering of the handmaidens and yet another ritual. Aunt Lydia (Ann Dowd) proves to be somewhat surprisingly supportive. Look for an outstanding performance by Madeline Brewer.

There’s an interesting scene between Rita (Amanda Brugel) and Serena Joy (Yvonne Strahovski). Rita almost says too much. We get a little insight into Rita and her history. We also get a bit more insight into Serena Joy and Stahovski is wonderful in this episode as we see how much Serena Joy wants to have a baby. Serena Joy is told to appreciate her handmaid, and we see that Mrs Putnam (Ever Carradine) is pretty much a horrible person. The black van comes for someone unexpected.

Offred (Elisabeth Moss) sticks her head out for a friend. Fred (Joseph Fiennes) proves he’s more observant than Offred thought. Offred reminds someone of a promise they made. Offred has an assignment with a tight time frame. Serena Joy has cause to whisk Offred away early one morning, and Offred is forced to perform a thankless task.

I’m so glad that we know there is going to be a second season of this show! The writing, acting, and cinematography continue to be some of the best on television, but there is much more of the story to be told. Not one but two characters attempt escapes in this episode – so you won’t want to miss it! And of course, here are a couple of dialogue teases…

Don’t be sad. He’s coming for me.
She’s tougher than you think.
Let her be an example to you.
It’s like living with a feral cat.
We’ll have to wait, of course.
I didn’t give up like a coward.
He’s so chill, he’s speechless.
You have to do what’s best for your daughter now.
It’s ok. I’m nervous too.