The Trippiest Mind-Bender TV show is back and better than ever

While a distinct series like this is undoubtedly the best Experienced instead of described (If anyone’s wondering why this review, based on the first six episodes available for critics to view, sheds so little light on details), Season 2 really outdoes itself with its expanded sense of scope and scale. A whopping 14 Emmy nominations and overwhelming critical acclaim would make any show a long leash, but “Severance” wastes no time showing off its bigger budget and ability to pull off bigger flops. It’s hard to beat a season already packed with unforgettable images like baby goats hiding in the deepest recesses of an office building, a waffle party that culminates in a dramatic dance by performers behind creepy masks, or the sinister torture chamber known as the Break Room. Believe it or not, this season raises the bar even higher without losing sight of what made the show so special to begin with.

Much of the credit goes to Dan Erickson and the creative team, of course, led by returning director and executive producer Ben Stiller. Between him and directors Sam Donovan, Uta Briesewitz, and others, the series has never looked crisper or more inventive, featuring zooms and handheld shots that lend a chaotic feel to the proceedings. The color palette, lighting, and production design (shoutout to director of photography Jessica Lee Janney, production designer Jeremy Hindle, and, frankly, the entire art department) remain as vibrant and lively as you remember, adding whole layers of subtext for those who pay close attention to detail. And with Season 2’s overall narrative direction finally coming into focus around the third episode or so, fans will be pleased by the number of new and returning characters that are taking the spotlight – not just our four main heroes, but also villainous characters like Harmony Cobel (Patricia Arquette) and even the kindly Mr. Milchick who… Played by Tramell Tillman, he steals the scene. (The introduction of Sarah Bock as Miss Huang and Gwendoline Christie as a Le Mon employee are obvious highlights.)

All of this means that for those worried about the long wait, “Severance” hasn’t lost a step since its debut in early 2022. It’s acerbic, smart and compelling in the extreme, immediately announcing itself as a series that will excel in 2025. Assuming the writers stick to this drop, any concerns about over-praising this phenomenon would be completely ridiculous. TV’s smartest show has now earned the benefit of the doubt, allowing us to simply enjoy this twisty and astonishing ride.

/ Movie rating: 8 out of 10

Season 2 of “Severance” premieres on Apple TV+ on Friday, January 17, 2025.