Big Love

Watch Big Love

  • TV-MA
  • 2006
  • 5 Seasons
  • 7.7  (23,199)

Big Love is an American television drama series that premiered on HBO in 2006 and ran for five seasons until 2011. Created by Mark V. Olsen and Will Scheffer, the show tells the story of a polygamist family living in suburban Salt Lake City, Utah. At the center of the family is Bill Henrickson, played by Bill Paxton, a successful businessman and devout member of the fundamentalist Mormon church who has three wives- Barb (Jeanne Tripplehorn), Nicki (Chloë Sevigny), and Margene (Ginnifer Goodwin). The show delves into the intricacies of their complex relationships, the struggles of living a polygamous lifestyle in a society that deems it illegal, and the challenges and joys of raising a family in such an environment.

Throughout the series, the Henrickson family must navigate the trials and tribulations of trying to keep their lifestyle hidden from their neighbors and the government, while also dealing with the issues that arise within their own family unit. Each of the wives has their own unique personality, and their relationships with each other and Bill are constantly evolving and changing throughout the show.

In addition to the family dynamics, the show also explores themes such as religion, family values, politics, and sexuality in a nuanced and thought-provoking manner. While the main characters are all members of the fundamentalist Mormon church, the series does not shy away from exploring the darker aspects of the religion, such as its patriarchal structure and the sexual abuse that can occur within its communities.

One of the strengths of Big Love is its talented cast of actors, who bring depth and complexity to their roles. Bill Paxton delivers a nuanced performance as Bill Henrickson, portraying him as a well-intentioned man who is dedicated to his family, but also struggling with his own inner demons. Jeanne Tripplehorn is equally compelling as Barb, the first wife, who is fiercely independent and struggles with her own desires outside of her marriage. Chloë Sevigny shines as the manipulative, scheming Nicki, who is constantly vying for Bill's attention and approval. Ginnifer Goodwin rounds out the cast with a charming performance as Margene, the youngest wife who is eager to please and learn from her sister wives.

The show was also notable for its striking visuals, with its depiction of suburban Salt Lake City and the surrounding Utah landscapes providing a beautiful backdrop for the story. The show's cinematography and production design were nominated for several awards during its run, and rightfully so.

While Big Love was a groundbreaking show for its time, it was not without its controversies. The depiction of polygamy raised concerns among some viewers, particularly members of the Mormon church, who felt that it perpetuated harmful stereotypes about their religion. However, the show's creators were careful to emphasize that the characters on the show were not representative of all Mormons, and that the show was not meant to be an indictment of the religion as a whole.

Overall, Big Love was a captivating drama that explored complex themes and relationships in a thoughtful and engaging way. Its talented cast, stunning visuals, and exploration of taboo subjects made it a groundbreaking show for its time, and it continues to be recognized as an important piece of television history.

Big Love is a series that is currently running and has 5 seasons (53 episodes). The series first aired on March 12, 2006.

Big Love
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Seasons
Where Men and Mountains Meet
10. Where Men and Mountains Meet
March 20, 2011
In the series finale, with jail time nearing, Bill maps out contingency plans for the family, while orchestrating a last-minute referendum on the Senate floor. Meanwhile, Barb has a plan of her own.
Exorcism
9. Exorcism
March 13, 2011
Nicki attempts to cast out the evil from Cara Lynn.
The Noose Tightens
8. The Noose Tightens
March 6, 2011
Bill sifts through Alby's past in order to stop him, but Alby continues his diabolical scheme. Meanwhile, Barb is pulled into the firestorm surrounding Bill and Margene.
Til Death Do Us Part
7. Til Death Do Us Part
February 27, 2011
Bill considers renewing his vows to his three wives as a symbol of commitment. Meanwhile, things reach a boiling point at Nikki & Bill's wedding. Alby makes his move by buying out HomePlus.
D.I.V.O.R.C.E.
6. D.I.V.O.R.C.E.
February 20, 2011
Barb's mother is disappointed with her ally choice. Cara Lynn continues to bond with her math teacher. Bill faces Mormon boycott of his stores and also recieves a warning about Alby coming after him.
The Special Relationship
5. The Special Relationship
February 13, 2011
Bill finds success in the Senate but faces new challenges from the Mormon Church. Barb reaches a new conclusion about her life. Lois remembers her past with Frank.
The Oath
4. The Oath
February 6, 2011
Bill deals with opposition from state officials as his swearing-in ceremony nears. Marg and Nicki resent Barb when she makes an appearance at a First Ladies fashion show.
Certain Poor Shepherds
3. Certain Poor Shepherds
January 30, 2011
Barb, Margene and Adaleen come forward with shocking information. Cara Lynn looks into the disappearance of her father. Lura tries to stop Alby's extreme measures.
A Seat At The Table
2. A Seat At The Table
January 23, 2011
Bill attempts to stage a meeting for polygamist leaders; Nicki learns the extent of Adaleen's isolation; Barb tries to find common ground with her mother; Cara Lynn impresses her math teacher; Margene worries about the situation with Ana and Goran.
Winter
1. Winter
January 16, 2011
In the fifth season premiere, the Hendricksons deal with the aftermath of the election and cope with psychological and physical threats; Alby returns from his desert exile with a desire to purify the compound.
Description
Where to Watch Big Love
Big Love is available for streaming on the HBO website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch Big Love on demand at Max, Amazon Prime, Amazon, Hulu, HBO NOW, Vudu, Google Play and Apple TV.
  • Premiere Date
    March 12, 2006
  • IMDB Rating
    7.7  (23,199)
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