Apple TV+’s Severance returned for its highly anticipated second season, bringing back its unique blend of psychological thriller, corporate satire, and sci-fi mystery. The show, created by Dan Erickson and directed in part by Ben Stiller, explores the unsettling world of Lumon Industries, where employees undergo a procedure that separates their work memories (innies) from their personal lives (outies). Season 1 left us with a jaw-dropping cliffhanger, and Season 2 does not disappoint in picking up the pieces.
One of the season’s biggest strengths is how it finally delivers answers to long-standing questions. The mysteries surrounding Lumon, the true purpose of the severance procedure, and the personal stakes of each character are explored in greater depth. However, for every revelation, new questions arise, ensuring that the show retains its signature intrigue and setting up an inevitable Season 3.
The storytelling remains exceptional, with incredible performances from the cast. Adam Scott continues to shine, effortlessly switching between his innie and outie personas, making the contrast between the two versions of his character feel seamless yet stark. Britt Lower, John Turturro, Zach Cherry, Patricia Arquette, and Christopher Walken all deliver powerhouse performances, further elevating the show’s depth and emotional stakes. The ability of the actors to embody two distinct versions of themselves, often with wildly different motivations and personalities, is nothing short of masterful. There is even a few episodes where an outies pretends to be an innie, which in itself complex – let alone to act.
That said, Season 2 does feel like it slightly moves away from what made Severance so compelling in its first season—the eerie, corporate drudgery of the innies performing their mysterious jobs. While the broader story developments are fascinating, the shift in focus makes the show feel somewhat different. Still, the expanded world-building and deeper exploration of Lumon’s power make for gripping television.
Despite this shift, Severance remains the best show available right now. Its weekly release schedule has turned it into a true event series, bringing audiences together to dissect every detail and theorize about what’s next. In an era where binge-watching has become the norm, Severance reminds us of the joy of communal TV watching, where each episode feels like an event to anticipate and discuss.
Overall, Season 2 delivers on the high expectations set by its predecessor. It masterfully balances answers with new enigmas, showcases phenomenal acting, and solidifies itself as a modern television masterpiece. While it takes some narrative detours, its ability to captivate and spark discussion remains unparalleled. If you’re not watching Severance, you’re missing out on one of the most compelling shows of the decade.