* This article contains spoilers
The second season picks up after the events of 2022's first season, with Wednesday Addams (Jenna Ortega) returning to Nevermore Academy as a hero after saving the school from the Hyde monster. However, within days of the new term, Wednesday faces new challenges: a stalker, a rift in her friendship with Enid (Emma Myers), a series of crow-related deaths, and the sudden disappearance of her psychic abilities.
The series blends detective work, horror, and gothic aesthetics to guide viewers through a series of mysterious events. Clues are scattered throughout each episode, interspersed with humor, keeping the tone from becoming too heavy. In the first four episodes, Wednesday investigates her stalker and uncovers the identity of the person controlling the crows.
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Jenna Ortega in "Wednesday" season two. Photo: Netflix |
Jenna Ortega in "Wednesday" season two. Photo: Netflix
Season 2 expands on the first season with new characters and storylines. Alongside familiar faces at Nevermore, the series introduces new figures like the unpredictable Principal Barry Dort (Steve Buscemi) and music teacher Miss Capri (Billie Piper).
Wednesday's family dynamics are further explored, revealing conflicts and adding depth to each character. Pugsley (Isaac Ordonez), Wednesday's younger brother with the ability to control electricity, joins Nevermore this year, promising to assist his sister in solving the mysteries.
The ongoing conflict between Wednesday and her mother, Morticia (Catherine Zeta-Jones), remains a central emotional point. Morticia wants Wednesday to embrace the Addams family tradition and use the Book of Shadows to develop her psychic abilities, but Wednesday refuses to follow this predetermined path. Their conversations and confrontations add to the drama. Other characters like Uncle Fester (Fred Armisen) and Grandmama (Joanna Lumley) contribute to the plot's development.
Critics have largely praised Jenna Ortega's performance. According to Variety, she maintains a stoic demeanor while conveying emotional depth in scenes exploring Wednesday's inner world. When Wednesday confronts dark dreams, Ortega effectively portrays her unease through subtle expressions and gestures.
The Guardian notes Ortega's acting maturity. She controls the narrative's pace, leaving a strong impression in scenes involving investigations and family conflicts.
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Agnes DeMille (played by Evie Templeton, second from left) has the ability to become invisible and is Wednesday's "super fan" at Nevermore Academy. Photo: Netflix |
Agnes DeMille (played by Evie Templeton, second from left) has the ability to become invisible and is Wednesday's "super fan" at Nevermore Academy. Photo: Netflix
Steve Buscemi stands out among the new cast members. His portrayal of the enigmatic Principal Dort, with his unsettling gaze and tone, creates an air of mystery. Supporting actors like Emma Myers (Enid), Isaac Ordonez (Pugsley), Joy Sunday (Bianca), and Moosa Mostafa (Eugene) add to the vibrant atmosphere of Nevermore.
The gothic setting evokes a sense of unease. The season opens with Wednesday tied up in a killer's dark basement, followed by a glimpse of black blood oozing from her eyes, instantly hooking the audience. Variety praises director Tim Burton's skillful use of shadows, creating a gloomy atmosphere and incorporating effective jump scares.
However, the expanded cast sometimes leads to a disjointed narrative and a lack of focus. According to The Hollywood Reporter, while the first season centered on Wednesday's self-discovery, the second season sees her somewhat overshadowed by the numerous events and characters. The series touches on various themes like investigation, family, and adolescence, but only superficially, without reaching a satisfying emotional climax. The season concludes with several unanswered questions: Enid's fate, the lingering dangers surrounding the Addams family and Willow Hill, and the significance of Lady Gaga's presence in the second season.
Que Chi
