Harlots

In its third season, “Harlots” maintains everything that has made it occasionally difficult to watch – the societal injustice, the violence towards women, the massive cast of characters – but those aspects are what makes this series worthwhile since they also pay off with insight, spirit, and cheeky humor.

There is a jarring clash between the grim subject matter and the relentlessly ribald sew-pearls-in-your-muff-hair tone. But at its best the discomfort is the point. Sex work is a brutal and messy business. What saves Harlots from falling down the ancient traps of objectification, fetishisation, and sexist tropes of “tarts with hearts” and hookers who secretly love it is its solidly female gaze. Plus its commitment to diversity and top-notch writing.

“Harlots” skips with a rebellious sense of joy this season, even though would-be pimps led by Isaac Pincher (Alfie Allen) descend on their tiny gynocracy intent upon stealing from these female entrepreneurs by threatening violence. ... But if the message must be harsh, at the very least the writers and directors help it go down with attitude and elegance.