Dead to Me – Season 2 – Netflix – Review
by Fran Winston

Starring: Christina Applegate, Linda Cardellini, James Marsden. Max Jenkins, Sam McCarthy, Luke Roessler

Season 2 now streaming on Netflix

The first season of this dark comedy was a huge hit – thanks in no small part to all the twists and turns. Every time you thought you had it figured out it hit you with something else. It also created a fabulous on-screen double act in the form of Applegate and Cardellini. Despite loving season one though I was sceptical that they could recreate the magic for season two.

The first season introduced us to Jen (Applegate) and Judy (Cardellini) whose lives become intertwined when they meet at group grief counselling having both suffered a loss. Without issuing spoilers for season one their lives are now more intertwined than ever following its events. And things get far more complicated this time around as the stakes are much higher for both women.

With so many shows being cut short as filming was cancelled over CoVid (Good Girls, Grey’s Anatomy, Supergirl, Young Sheldon, Law & Order SVU to name just a few) it’s actually refreshing to be able to sit and watch a series through as it was intended. Especially one that keeps you on your toes like this one does. We’re not even halfway through the first episode before it’s throwing out “what the actual…” moments and it doesn’t let up.

The two leads are still impressive together, and their chemistry has only increased if anything. Marsden gets far more to do this season which is always a good thing as he’s a far better actor than he’s often given credit for. And there are some well-known names that pop up in recurring roles simply adding to the casting kudos.

Like season two of anything, this doesn’t have the surprise element of the first season but it builds very well on what was set in motion and stays true to the ethos of the show. Also, and I will never get tired of saying this, it’s fabulous to see a strong female-led show.

This is a really strong second season for a show that could easily have gone downhill after a good start given its complex subject matter. It will have you glued to your seat and builds to a really emotional ending. Definitely worth a box set binge in lockdown.