TV's Trippiest Mind-Bender is back and better than ever

Although a series as quirky as this is arguably the best experienced not described (in case anyone's wondering why this review, based on the first six episodes available to critics, has glossed over the specifics a bit), Season 2 really outdoes itself with its expanded sense of scope and scale. A whopping 14 Emmy nominations and massive 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 hard to beat a season already filled with memorable images 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, never forgetting what made the show so special.

Much of the credit must go to Dan Erickson and the creative team, of course with returning director and executive producer Ben Stiller. Between himself and directors Sam Donovan, Juta Brisewitz and others, the series has never looked more expressive or inventive, incorporating emergency zooms and hand-held shots that add a much more chaotic feel to the proceedings. The color palette, lighting, and production design (shout out to director of photography Jessica Lee Gagne, producer Jeremy Hindle, and honestly the entire art department) remain as bright and vibrant as you remember, adding whole layers of subtext to those who pay. great attention to detail. And as the overall narrative thrust of Season 2 finally comes into focus around episode three, fans will be thrilled to see how many new and returning characters come into focus — not just our four main characters, but also villainous figures like Harmony Cobel ( Patricia Arquette) and even Tramel Tillman's mild-mannered, scene-stealing Mr. Milczyk. (The introductions of Sarah Bock as Miss Huang and Gwendoline Christie as Lumon's employee are considered highlights.)

All of which is to say that for those worried about the long wait, Severance hasn't lost a step since its debut in early 2022. Harsh, witty and extremely engaging, it immediately announces itself as the series to beat in 2025. Assuming the writers stick with the landing, any fear of exaggerating the phenomenon will feel downright silly. The smartest show on television right now has given us the benefit of the doubt, letting us just enjoy this twisty, mind-bending ride.

/Film rating: 8 out of 10

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