The season two premiere of 13 Reasons Why left many questions regarding the future outcome of the trial and what actually happened before and after Hannah Baker’s (Katherine Langford) death. The rest of the season gradually places the pieces together and completes such an important and relevant ensemble story on a much deeper and darker level that proves once again why it is one of the best shows in recent memory.
One of the most interesting aspects of season two is the choice to put a little less emphasis on Clay Jensen (Dylan Minnette) and make the season more of an ensemble arc. It allows more time to be spent with other important characters, like Jessica Davis (Alisha Boe), Alex Standall (Miles Heizer), and Zach Dempsey (Ross Butler), and their own struggles in the aftermath of the first season.
Although Clay might not be as much of a focal character as he initially was, he is still an incredibly vital piece to the story. We see him still trying to cope with Hannah’s death and now not only seeing her, but communicating with her in his mind. He goes on a heartfelt, emotional journey throughout the season that is only rivaled in quality by Jessica’s journey.
I give tremendous respect and admiration for the writers, directors, and the rest of the crew for crafting a brilliant story that continues the dialogue and discussion in such a bold and daring way. They are not afraid to pull any punches and address certain “taboo” topics with a sense of care, responsibility, and realism.
Even the cinematography finds ways to reveal more about the characters than the actual dialogue itself, which itself is very solid, and, along with a great musical score, creates situations that evokes tension and suspense. That tension and suspense then reflect back on revealing more about the characters and what is brewing under their surface.
Read Daryn Kirscht’s review of the 13 Reasons Why Season 2 Premiere.
The actors themselves also deserve recognition. Rarely is a show ever casted perfectly, but this one ranks in that category. Even if their material is somewhat predictable for a particular scene, the actors – and by actors I mean all of them – create ways to add more to the scene and exude great chemistry with one another. Of course, great writers and directors can bring out the best in any actor, but it is the actors that bring that to life. In essence, it is the perfect ensemble clashing together.
Although there are many spectacular aspects to this new season, there are a few minor negatives. Sometimes the show is trying to tackle so much different content with a large cast that it can be tough to deliver a satisfying and completed arc for all of them. It also transitions too quickly with certain moments that take away a little bit from the impact it is going for, which relates back to too much going on in a few episodes. This season also expands on Hannah’s past in ways that some might feel complicated and upset with, but I believe it only makes her character and others more relatable in the end.
The way in which this season concludes is both heartfelt and poetic. The entire season is all about overcoming adversity, learning to grieve, and finding a way to move forward. It plants an intriguing seed that could be touched upon if the show returns for a third season, but wraps up the story arc beautifully and without a necessity for another season.
Lastly, I wish to thank Netflix for allowing this show to embrace the difficult topics it covers and to do so with the creative freedom it needs in order to properly tell the story that so desperately needs to be told. In the world we live in today, I strongly believe that this show is doing more to bring up healthy discussion about the topics of suicide, sexual and gun violence, and the oppressive evils of those with power in high schools and has been more successful in doing so than those with the actual ability to do so themselves.
Many probably doubted and questioned the need for this show and, even moreso, the need for another season. In addition to the masterful storytelling techniques utilized and wonderful performances from the cast, the impact that this show carries and relevance it reflects not only among high schoolers, but our society as a whole, makes this show one that is truly needed.
Many think that 13 Reasons Why does nothing more than glorify suicide, but in actuality, it does the exact opposite. It shows the fallout of that choice and how exactly it affects everyone forever. This new season emphasizes that even more while touching on other heartbreaking topics in ways that will hopefully have the same kind of impact on viewers.
Rating: 9/10
13 Reasons Why Season 2 is currently streaming on Netflix.
-Daryn Kirscht
