The Deuce

The Deuce is currently streaming in Australia on Foxtel Now and HBO Max, and in the US on YouTube TV and HBO Max, and its case-by-case structure never gets in the way of the bigger story. 3 seasons means there is plenty to get through without ever feeling padded. With 423 viewer ratings on TMDB, this is not a title flying under the radar. James Franco anchors it, but the writing does the real work. Put it on tonight on Foxtel Now and see for yourself.

Whatever else is competing for your attention this week, The Deuce is worth clearing space for. The Deuce treats its mystery as a means, not an end in itself. The story of the legalization and subsequent rise of the porn industry in New York’s Times Square from the early ’70s through the mid ’80s, exploring the rough-and-tumble world that existed there until the rise of HIV, the violence of the cocaine epidemic and the renewed real estate market ended the bawdy turbulence of the area. James Franco and Maggie Gyllenhaal lead a cast that gives the tension real weight. 3 seasons (2017–2019) gave the story room most shows never get. What makes The Deuce hold up is that the resolution matters less than how the characters get there. The hit rate here is high enough that skipping ahead never feels like an option.

Viewers who think they have seen every crime drama tend to find The Deuce proves them wrong. Power is the obvious comparison, but The Deuce earns its own place alongside it. The complete run is available and best experienced without too much prior knowledge of where it goes. James Franco's performance is the kind that shows up on best-of lists years later. If you have been looking for something to fill the gap left by a recently finished story, this is a reliable answer.

The Deuce wrapped up in 2019, created by David Simon and George Pelecanos — and 3 seasons are available to watch from start to finish. Find exactly where it's streaming below, and TV Butler Pro makes it effortless to track your progress as you go. Just search the name, and Butler finds it instantly, tells you which service has it, and remembers exactly where you left off.