Watch The Deuce

The Deuce is an award-winning drama series from HBO that aired from 2017 to 2019. The show revolves around the story of the rise of the porn industry in New York City during the 1970s and '80s. Created by David Simon and starring James Franco, Maggie Gyllenhaal, and Lawrence Gilliard Jr., the series explores the lives of various characters who are intertwined within the world of sex and commerce. Set against the backdrop of Times Square, The Deuce depicts the raw and unfiltered reality of a time when the city was on the brink of bankruptcy, crime was rampant, and the sex trade was flourishing.

The show mainly focuses on a few main characters, including Vincent and Frankie Martino, twin brothers played by James Franco. Vincent is a bartender who gets involved in various business ventures, including the sex industry, while Frankie is more of a reckless gambler who frequently gets into trouble with the wrong people. On the other hand, Candy (Maggie Gyllenhaal) is a prostitute who aspires to become a porn director and sets out to make her dreams a reality. Lastly, there's Bobby Dwyer (Lawrence Gilliard Jr.), who is the manager of a massage parlor but struggles to keep up with the changing times in the industry.

What sets The Deuce apart from other shows is its gritty and realistic portrayal of the sex industry. The show never shies away from showing the harsh realities of the business, including drug use, violence, and exploitation. The series also delves into the complex relationships between the characters and their motivations. For example, Vincent's participation in the sex industry may be for financial gain, but he also wants to help the women who work in the industry. Candy's journey is also nuanced, as she goes from being a prostitute to becoming a successful porn director, but she still faces challenges and struggles to assert herself in a male-dominated industry.

One of the main themes of the show is the fight for control and power. The Deuce showcases the different players in the industry and how they navigate their way to the top, whether it's the pimps, police officers, or mob bosses. However, the women in the business are not just passive players, and they show their resilience and agency in the face of adversity. The show also highlights the evolving landscape of the industry, as the internet and technology emerge and change the way people consume and create pornography.

Aside from its compelling storyline, the show also boasts excellent production value. The sets, costumes, and music all transport the audience to the gritty and colorful world of Times Square in the 1970s and '80s. The show's attention to detail and accuracy in depicting the era is also impressive, from the billboards and storefronts to the language and slang used by the characters.

The Deuce received critical acclaim during its run and was praised for its writing, direction, and performances. The show also garnered attention for its frank and honest representation of sex and sexuality, which was seen as groundbreaking and refreshing. The series tackled taboo topics with sensitivity and insight, and never shied away from the complexities of human desire and relationships.

In conclusion, The Deuce is a must-watch series for anyone who enjoys character-driven dramas and is interested in the history of the sex industry. The show is a raw and unflinching look at the people who lived and worked in Times Square during a time of great change and upheaval. With its compelling storyline, outstanding performances, and accurate portrayal of the era, The Deuce is a show that will stay with viewers long after the credits roll.

The Deuce is a series that is currently running and has 3 seasons (28 episodes). The series first aired on September 10, 2017.