‘Shrinking’ returns for a second season, and it’s a definite improvement over the first, offering a compelling blend of humour and heart. The Apple TV+ series follows a therapist, Jimmy (played by Jason Segel), who, in the wake of a personal tragedy, decides to throw out the rulebook and start telling his patients exactly what he thinks, leading to some chaotic and surprisingly helpful (sometimes) outcomes. This season, the writing is noticeably sharper, allowing for more depth and nuance in the characters and their relationships.
This show knows how to tug at your heartstrings. It’s an emotional rollercoaster, with plenty of laugh-out-loud moments balanced by scenes that will have you reaching for the tissues. The strength of ‘Shrinking’ lies in its ability to make you feel deeply for these characters, even when they’re flawed or making questionable choices.
While there is a lot of hype online, it didn’t completely blow me away. It’s not quite perfect, but it’s still very good. The focus is heavily on character development and emotional journeys, which is a real strength, but it does mean that sometimes the actual storylines feel a bit less complex than they could be. It leans more into sitcom territory in that sense, prioritizing the relationships and feelings over intricate plots. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, just an observation.
Overall, ‘Shrinking’ season two is a solid and enjoyable watch, especially if you’re looking for a show that will make you laugh and cry. It’s a comfort watch, a character-driven comedy that delivers on the emotional front, and while it might not be the most innovative show available, it’s definitely one worth watching.