“‘Harlots’?”

With that one word, “Veronica Mars” communicates volumes, most particularly its cheeky sense of humor. In the series’ revival, Veronica (Kristen Bell) returns home to find her current boyfriend Logan (Jason Dohring) has been hanging out awkwardly with her ex-boyfriend, Leo (Max Greenfield).

When the couple is alone, they relax to watch TV, but instead of Netflix and Chill, Logan suggests “Harlots.” This may not be the obvious viewing choice for a military intelligence officer. “Harlots” is Hulu’s period drama set in Georgian London and focuses on the war between two brothels. The series, which is created, written and directed by women, stars Samantha Morton, Jessica Brown Findlay, and Lesley Manville, among others.

On the surface, this may seem like streaming synergy. After all, “Veronica Mars” and “Harlots” are both Hulu series. But if an in-brand plug was the point, then why not call out the streamer’s most prestigious series,...