While a series as idiosyncratic as this is undoubtedly best experienced rather than described (in case anyone was wondering why this review, based on the first six episodes made available to critics to screen, is a little light on specifics), season 2 truly outshines itself through its expanded sense of scope and scale. A whopping 14 Emmy nominations and overwhelming critical acclaim will buy any show a long leash, but “Severance” wastes no time showing off its bigger budget and ability to take even bigger swings. It’s tough to beat a season that already packed in unforgettable imagery like baby goats hidden in the deepest recesses of an office building, a waffle party culminating in an erotic 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 ever losing sight of what made the show so special to begin with.
Much of the credit has to go to Dan Erickson and the creative team, of course, led by returning director and executive producer Ben Stiller. Between himself and directors Sam Donovan, Uta Briesewitz, and more, the series has never looked crisper or more inventive, featuring crash zooms and handheld shots that lend a much more chaotic feel to the proceedings. The color palette, lighting, and production design (shout out to director of photography Jessica Lee Gagné, production designer Jeremy Hindle and, frankly, the entire art department) remain as vivid and vibrant as you remember, adding entire layers of subtext for those paying close attention to detail. And as the overall narrative direction of season 2 finally comes into focus around the third episode or so, fans will be delighted by just how many new and returning characters get the spotlight all to themselves — not just our four main protagonists, but villainous figures like Harmony Cobel (Patricia Arquette) and even Tramell Tillman’s mild-mannered, scene-stealing Mr. Milchick. (The introductions of Sarah Bock as Miss Huang and Gwendoline Christie as a Lumon employee rank as clear-cut highlights.)
All of this to say that, for those concerned about the long wait, “Severance” hasn’t lost a single step since its debut in early 2022. Acerbic, witty, and compelling to the extreme, it immediately announces itself as the series to beat in 2025. Presuming the writers stick the landing, any fears of overpraising this phenomenon will feel downright silly. The smartest show on television right now has earned the benefit of the doubt, allowing us to simply enjoy this twisting, mind-bending ride.
/Film Rating: 8 out of 10
“Severance” season 2 premieres on Apple TV+ Friday, January 17, 2025.