Two years in the past, “Poker Face” launched us to my favorite trendy TV detective, Charlie Cale (Natasha Lyonne).
Rian Johnson’s thriller collection was an old-school, “Columbo”-adjacent thriller each bit as interesting as his Netflix murder-mystery franchise, “Knives Out.”
As of right this moment (Could 8), our favorite BS-detector is again in motion on Peacock. The primary three episodes of “Poker Face” season 2 are now accessible to stream, and comply with our drifting detective as she tackles a recent set of unorthodox circumstances throughout America.
I used to be an enormous fan of the primary season and simply had the possibility to observe the primary 10 episodes of season 2. I am happy to report I’ve come away a really completely happy viewer certainly.
I am going to attempt to preserve issues as spoiler-free as doable, however if you wish to go in with out figuring out something, simply know that for those who liked season 1, you are going to need to find time for “Poker Face” season 2. In any other case, yow will discover my full response beneath.
‘Poker Face’ season 2 is extra of the identical — and that is no unhealthy factor
“Poker Face” was an actual win proper out of the gate: an awesome mix of an affable lead, enjoyable plots, and lots of laughs. It is simple to see why it was such successful with viewers the primary time round.
If you happen to’re one of the many individuals who fell for this new blast of cozy crime-solving again in 2023, you may be happy to know that the show’s probably not modified — and that is not a criticism.
“Poker Face” season 2 does not stray from the show’s established formulation. It is nonetheless following Cale throughout America, nonetheless boasts a formidable roster of visitor stars (every doing strong work), and nonetheless delivers whipsmart writing and intriguing, oddball mysteries, all of that are as entertaining as ever.
So what’s totally different? Nicely, season 2 is just a bit extra audacious than earlier than. Cale’s journey right here sees her wandering into even wilder conditions this time round.
These conditions contain, say, a vindictive tween determined to be the highest canine or a plot involving equivalent sisters (all performed by an enigmatic Cynthia Erivo).
These mysteries might be extra on the market, however they’re no much less satisfying to observe unfurl; every chapter is distinct in tone and really feel, and has its personal highlights. One second, we’re paying homage to traditional heist motion pictures in a big-box retail retailer; the following, we’re coping with a celeb alligator at a police awards show gone awry.
It is a sensible evolution, in my eyes. We’re not deviating from the formulation that made “Poker Face” a essential darling within the first place, however simply constructing on what made it successful within the first place.
Verdict: Put ‘Poker Face’ season 2 on the high of your watchlist
“Poker Face” season 2 is a second, larger batch of compelling (if contrived!) mysteries, Charlie’s as magnetic as ever, and the stellar visitor solid’s full of spectacular turns — for those who love thriller tales, crime comedy, and Natasha Lyonne, you may be well-served right here.
Season 2 proves that Johnson’s mystery-of-the-week collection has severe endurance. I blitzed by means of all 10 accessible episodes and would fortunately have streamed dozens extra.
Season 2 cements the “Poker Face” formulation as a licensed winner, and I look ahead to each the collection finale and — hopefully — to many extra seasons to come back.
“Poker Face” season 2 episodes 1-3 premiere on Peacock on Thursday, Could 8, with new episodes airing weekly thereafter by means of to July 10. Within the U.Okay., “Poker Face” season 2 will air on Sky and streaming service NOW.
