The Gentlemen on Netflix had a fun, breezy and stylish S1. It ends on a note where even if the show did not continue, it was somewhat satisfying to see Eddie develop his own will to get into the game.
S2 comes out and I think it does exactly what a next season of a show should do. Here are a few things:
It significantly progresses the plot from before. The business goes international, Eddie continues to penetrate deeper into the weed game and the complexities that arise from his growing ambition defines the second season.
The characters continue to develop in meaningful ways. Eddie goes from being played by the Glasses in S1 to now being the one in greater control. We knew that he is resourceful and even a bit cocky to remain on a leash for long. His brother Freddie finally acts on his somewhat hidden jealousy. Susie charts her course in the weed game and tries to rebel in her own, mild way against her controlling father. We get a lot of Bobby Glass this season and can appreciate why he is where he is. He is always two steps ahead of everyone.
As for newer characters, additions like Bella and Nanny were highlights. You want new seasons to bring newer characters that can influence the story and expand the world. Bella, was a big catalyst in turning Eddie into what he becomes in the end. And Nanny is a fantastic addition to the Duke's family. Someone who disapproves of the business but goes along for the sake of loyalty and love for his wife. I found the actors for both Bella and Nanny to be charming.
New seasons usually means the crew is more experienced and get larger resources. While S1 was already visually gorgeous and beautifully shot, S2 really ups the standards even further. There is a very cinematic feel around S2 and the sets, locations, costumes and vehicles continues to get better. The music from Chris Benstead was also amazing.
Lastly, each season should ideally have a thematic throughline. I feel S2 is all about clash of egos and ambitions. Eddie, Freddie, Bobby Glass, Marco, Dixon all are vying for control and power, often over the same subject matter. I feel there is an added layer this season, felt in the subtext, that Eddie has a superiority complex due to his lineage and name, which makes him feel as if he should be ahead of mere thugs like Bobby and Marco and Dixon.
On the whole, it was a fantastic season for me with great quality across the board. It feels quite different to S1 which had more humor and a lighter touch. S2 feels heavy, but honestly, they made it work.
The best part remains Susan and Eddie's relationship. Whatever the nature of it is, I like how they bounce off of each other and continue to support each other.
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