In an age where comic book adaptations have become the most sought after, and highest selling properties in modern media, The Boys always had an unfair advantage when it came to its prospects of success. Amazon Prime must have been delighted then, when the superhero satire not only exceeded expectations, but became one of the streaming services’ most successful shows in a matter of weeks. Of course, to anyone who watched the dark, emotionally complex, politically relevant and ludicrously violent series, this should have come as no surprise whatsoever. Now, Erik Kripke’s emotionally manipulative masterpiece is back for round two, and if the first three episodes are anything to go by, we’re sure in for a treat.
The first episode kicks off shortly after the heart-pounding conclusion of season one, and picks up all the loose threads quicker than A-Train on compound V. The vast library of complex and layered characters with individual narrative arcs in need of conclusion and expansion, does slightly slow the momentum built up thus far however. This is largely a result of the screen time being spread across so many different storylines. While this isn’t necessarily a criticism of these re-introductory episodes, it’s worth remembering that it might take some adjustment to re-immerse yourself in this broad and dense universe once again. After all, a year is a long time to spend away from the delightfully repulsive products of Vought industries.
One thing that’s certainly clear from the get go, is just how much broader the scope of the world is this time round. From the overall storyline building towards a future war of super-powered beings, to numerous Easter eggs teasing impending character introductions (such as Jensen Ackles’ Soldier Boy), the show is now bigger than ever. Fortunately, Kripke and his team haven’t lost sight of what made it special in the first place. One of the most delicious aspects of the series has always been its blurred lines between hero and villain, with almost every single character operating somewhere in the grey area between the two. Antony Starr once again delivers an impressive performance as Homelander, a dark reflection of Superman with a penchant for murder, narcissism, and oedipal complexities. Often singled out as the most shocking and offensive character, Starr captivates the screen in every frame by conveying a unique, electric blend of menace, charm, and unpredictability.
The rest of the cast are also on fine form, with Karl Urban once again standing out in particular. Returning as the profanity-laced, silver tongued cockney, Urban injects every ounce of energy he has into the role and raises the game of everyone else as a result. Giancarlo Esposito and Aya Cash also join in on the fun this year. At this point, it’s safe to say that Esposito has firmly established himself as the go-to-guy for for terrifying TV antagonists, so it’s easy to see why he’s been drafted in as the new head of Vought. Drawing heavily from his work on Breaking Bad and The Mandalorian, he presents an interesting power shift for Homelander. Few individuals are brave enough to stand up to the man who can take planes down with his eyes after all, and it’s a delicious sight to behold on screen. Meanwhile, Cash’ character of Stormfront, another direct competitor for control over the Seven, oozes charisma and complexity, which yields some truly horrifying developments. Perfect for a series that thrives on visual and verbal shock.
The humour retains its wit and originality, with an abundance of real world satire that’s continually mined from our hunger and reliance on pop culture and social media. Executive producers Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg (that latter of which makes another brilliantly meta cameo appearance) maintain their comedic influence here, with more than a handful of shockingly laugh out loud moments, and a hilarious running gag aimed at Hawkeye and the Green Arrow that’s been ripe for mockery for years. Those hoping for some genuine superhero will also be more than satisfied. A clearly increased budget displays some astounding scenes of special effects-laden spectacle, with a much heavier emphasis on that aspect than last time. Overall, The Boys season 2 is bigger, better, funnier, gorier and nastier, in all the best ways. You won’t be able to take your eyes off it for a second.
The Boys season 2
Summary
The Boys season 2 is bigger, better, funnier, gorier and nastier, in all the best ways. You won’t be able to take your eyes off it for a second.
The Boys Season 2 is available on Amazon Prime Video on September 4th.
