Severance Season 2 Review: The Best Mystery On TV Returns Strong

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I can’t help but feel the excitement as I reflect on the long two years and nine months of waiting – a duration that seems to stretch endlessly, especially when anticipating the continuation of one of TV’s most acclaimed and cherished sci-fi dramas. The heart-pounding finale of Apple TV+’s “Severance” Season 1 still leaves me breathless with its intensity. Rest assured, each moment of that wait was more than compensated by the return of this captivating series, which remains as bold, intelligent, and mind-bendingly enigmatic as Damon Lindelof’s “The Leftovers.

To fully appreciate the 10 new episodes, it’s recommended to rewatch the first season as some details may have grown hazy due to the nearly three-year gap. Season 2 resumes five months after the previous ending, offering answers that might be chilling yet intriguing. Mark (Adam Scott), upon his return to Lumon, encounters a changed dynamic in his department’s basement, with some fresh faces included, all skillfully presented in an engaging and creatively directed opening sequence by director Ben Stiller.

In simpler terms, Mark finds himself leading a team without his former boss, Ms. Cobel, who was dismissed due to an inappropriate interest in Mark, and now takes orders from a new superior, Mr. Milchick. It appears that the MDR group revolted following a disturbance, causing most of them to leave, leaving only Mark dissatisfied with empty corporate promises. Mark then devises a strategy to bring back his colleagues Helly, Dylan, and Irving from Lumon sooner rather than later. Eventually, they all board the unsettling elevator to discuss their findings from the world outside.

New reforms to abide and dots to connect

The unique characteristic of this new season is that we’re all having to adapt to fresh changes in how Lumon functions, which affects both the team and viewers. The speed at which the show unfolds has been reset to its original pace from the first season, but now it’s enriched with details about the mysterious tech company our characters work for that we didn’t know before. The first two episodes serve as a recap of just how peculiar and calculated “Severance” has always been, skillfully constructing tension filled with mysteries and top-notch character development.

In contrast to its previous season, Season 2 might not be packed with as many surprising plot twists or “eureka” moments, but the personal risks are significantly amplified for all characters. This heightened tension is skillfully exploited throughout the series. It’s invigorating to watch a show that isn’t afraid to take risks and doesn’t constantly guide the audience, allowing them to navigate the story on their own terms. While the pace of new developments might be slower than some mystery enthusiasts would like, this slower tempo gives characters time to grapple with their recent experiences, reflect on their emotions, and consider the limited choices they have in the face of Lumon’s Board.

Dan Erickson, the creator, along with his team of writers, encourage us to analyze and link together seemingly trivial and crucial elements within the story on our own. They believe this process is more fulfilling than receiving straightforward answers. Rest assured, there are numerous references scattered throughout this fictitious world that we’re only starting to explore and comprehend.

Who to trust now?

As a dedicated gamer immersed in the world of Severance, I can’t help but marvel at how skillfully the narrative unfolds. Early on, the writers cleverly manipulate the innie-outie-employer dynamic to introduce an unexpected twist, subtly sowing distrust among the central characters. This intrigue isn’t always immediately clear when Lumon is deceiving us, creating tension from uncertainty that sometimes reaches a fever pitch in stunning climaxes that leave me emotionally stunned.

There’s a pivotal moment midway through that sends shockwaves through the storyline, revealing just how far Severance is willing to go. Leading up to this jaw-dropping revelation, Dan Erickson and his team strategically plant red herrings and false twists early on, ensuring we’ll be taken aback by something much bigger when it finally unveils itself.

In addition to the main cast, Season 2 brings in some new characters, brilliantly chosen guest stars who effortlessly blend with the series, enriching both its emotional depth and pitch-black humor. Yes, despite its typically gloomy and somber tone, “Severance” remains as outrageous and funny as ever; it’s still dark, biting, and sarcastic in the best way possible.

In essence, “Severance” stands out as a keen and incisive critique of workplace dynamics, autonomy, and power dynamics – all while delving profoundly into the complexities of fractured relationships, loss, and human bonding. With its compelling character-focused plotline, engrossing enigma, and breathtaking cinematography (courtesy of Jessica Lee Gagné), “Severance” remains a complete treasure trove. In an era where familiar tropes and worn-out formulas dominate streaming and television more and more, a gem like this deserves endless accolades. To echo my earlier sentiments, there’s nothing quite like it on the small screen at the moment. Therefore, relish each episode while you can – and if we trust director-cum-executive producer Ben Stiller, it will continue to captivate us… at least for another season.

“Severance” Season 2 premieres on Apple TV+ on January 17.

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2025-01-16 17:30