Sam Levinson returns to the world of “Euphoria” to direct the second season of HBO’s hit series. Now- Emmy winner Zendaya is joined by a host of returning cast members including Hunter Schafer, Sydney Sweeney, Alexa Demie, Jacob Elordi, and Angus Cloud—to name a few. Audiences also meet new characters and cast members including musician Dominic Fike and newcomer Chloe Cherry. This long-awaited follow-up to the first season is an action-packed collection of episodes. It is certain to keep audiences thoroughly entertained and constantly on their toes.
Opening with an alcohol-fueled New Years Eve party, viewers are thrown straight back into “Euphoria’s” chaotic world. Rue (Zendaya) returns, but the arrival of Elliot (Dominic Fike) threatens her and Jules’ relationship and her sobriety. Cassie (Sydney Sweeney) and Nate (Jacob Elordi) begin a dangerous affair that could turn violent, and sparks between Fezco (Angus Cloud) and Lexi (Maude Apatow) arise—but will their new friendship last? While Kat’s (Barbie Ferreria) journey takes a sour turn, almost as if the character goes off on her own mission. New characters, new relationships, and emotional narratives propel “Euphoria” into taking back its place as one of the most entertaining shows on TV.
Zendaya Returns; ‘Euphoria’ Brings on New Characters
Once again, Zendaya gives a captivating and riveting performance as Rue; she leads a cast that provides thrilling, exciting performances that leave you thoroughly entertained every episode. Newcomer Dominic Fike, more formerly known for his chart-topping songs, gives a surprisingly good turn as Rue’s new friend Elliot. “Spider-Man: Homecoming” and “Baskets” star Martha Kelly also makes her first appearance in the series; she plays Laurie, a drug dealer who causes nothing but problems for Rue.
Kelly’s performance is arguably one of Season 2’s more unsettling parts, purely because of the character’s unnervingly calm demeanour. Newcomer Chloe Cherry also makes her acting debut, playing Faye, an acquaintance of Fezco (Angus Cloud) and Ashtray (Javon Walton). Cherry’s airheaded yet abrupt portrayal of the character makes her easily one of the show’s best characters.
An Enhanced Labrinth Score and Mesmerising Visuals
Episode 5, “Stand Still Like the Hummingbird,” is arguable the highlight of the entire season. The episode is a culmination of top-notch writing and directing from Sam Levinson. Additionally, it’s a career-best performance from Zendaya, and includes high stakes, keeping you on the edge of your seat throughout. Episode 5 happens to feature the song “Yeh I Fuckin’ Did It” created by Labrinth for the series.
Despite being another great season of “Euphoria,” Season 2 can’t help but feel as though it ignores pre-established characters in favour of new, unexplored ones (i.e., Kat being given the short straw and one of the worst storylines of the entire show). Although Fezco, Ashtray, and Cal (Nate Jacob’s dad played by “Grey’s Anatomy” star Eric Dane) are all given much-needed backstories that allows viewers to discover the history behind these characters.
Cinematographer Marcell Rév once again provides “Euphoria” with mesmerising imagery that creates a visual feast for audiences. However, Rév takes the cinematography to the next level in Season 2; he shoots the entire season on Kodak 35mm film, creating a distinctive look for the show that sets it apart from many other series on TV.
‘Euphoria’ Continues its Exploration of Heavy Themes
This season also happens to feature new songs from artists including Tove Lo, Lana Del Ray, and James Blake, while music supervisor Jen Malone (“Atlanta,” “The Resident”) handpicks songs that perfectly match the show’s aesthetic. Emmy winner Labrinth once again works his magic, creating an addicting score that elevates the show to another level entirely. Not only does Labrinth score the series, but the acclaimed artist also composed original songs for the series. These include “I’m Tired” and “Elliot’s Song,” both of which feature Zendaya, with the latter featuring vocals from Dominic Fike as well.
It comes as no surprise to regular “Euphoria” viewers, but Season 2 again dives into some incredibly heavy themes. Levinsons covers how addiction affects both the addict and their family/the people around them; he also explores sexuality and toxic relationships, all of which are apart of a vast web of interconnecting motifs and messages.
Overall, Season 2 of “Euphoria” fails to match the jaw-dropping twists and thrills of Season 1, but Sam Levinson still manages to create a collection of episodes that take the show in a different direction, keeping the series engaging and exciting. With powerful performances and emotion-packed narratives, “Euphoria” once again re-asserts itself as one of HBO’s best original series. However, the season finale “All My Life, My Heart Has Yearned for a Thing I Cannot Name” leaves audiences with more questions than answers—and with Season 3 not expected to come until 2024—fans will have to wait a long time to have their queries answered.
“Euphoria” is currently available to stream on HBO Max.
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