By Ben Wright (@iamzavagno | www.xgeeks.co.uk)
This review is spoiler-free.
Good Omens 2 is a long-awaited continuation of the delightful and quirky journey that charmed audiences in its first series. Set in the whimsical universe created by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett, this season manages to not only live up to the high expectations set by its predecessor but also surpasses them with a fresh wave of humour, wit, and endearing characters. If Good Omens was an eight (out of ten), Good Omens 2 is a twelve!
The story picks up where it left off, following the angel Aziraphale (Michael Sheen) and the demon Crowley (David Tennant) as they navigate the complexities of their unlikely alliance and relationship, having previously prevented the apocalypse! Their dynamic remains at the core of the show’s fabric, blending an impeccable mix of camaraderie, humorous banter, and a deepening sense of affection. The real-world friendship between Tennant and Sheen just enhances their chemistry and makes for a better show all-round.
This season includes both returning and intriguing new characters, with many of the returning faces given brand-new characters! Nina Sosanya (Nina) and Maggie Service (Maggie) have swapped their nun outfits for shop owners, and both have their own journey that is parallel to that of Crowley and Aziraphale. Miranda Richardson (Shax) is also back and really gets to chew up the scenery with a memorable performance as Hell’s new Earthly representative. While not returning in a new capacity, well, not completely, Jon Hamm (Gabriel) delivers a new side of Gabriel that provides ‘laugh-out-loud’ humour in every scene he features.
In regards to the new cast members, Gloria Obianyo (Uriel) and Liz Carr (Saraquael) join Doon Mackichan (Michael) as the Archangels, with Quelin Sepulveda (Muriel) also joining the Heavenly ranks! The introduction of Muriel was one of my favourite elements of Good Omens 2, with Quelin Sepulveda’s outstanding performance making Muriel such an endearing character from the off! While her role was only a minor one, Donna Preston (Mrs Sandwich) got her fair share of laughs and was quite the contrast of characters from when I last saw her, playing Despair in The Sandman. And last but by no means least, there is Shelley Conn (Beelzebub). Conn has replaced Anna Maxwell Martin, who could not return to the show due to a schedule clash. While it was sad to see Martin depart, Conn is a tremendous replacement and really showed Beelzebub in a new, demonic, light!
Without giving too much away, the narrative takes unexpected turns, as early as the first episode, and keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, while maintaining the signature charm of the series. The comedic elements are finely balanced with deeper philosophical themes, exploring the nature of free will, destiny, and the grey areas between good and evil, friendship and love. As the stakes escalate, the emotional depth of the story deepens, forging an even stronger connection between the audience and the characters. As well as the present, we delve deep into the past as well, and these moments further establish plot points and aid with character development.
As with the previous season, the witty dialogue and clever writing are major strengths of Good Omens. Neil Gaiman’s influence shines through, and the adaptation stays true to the spirit of the source material, but with plenty of creative flourishes to keep the show standing on its own legs. The writing from the first line to the last is perfect!
So, what about the negatives? There really aren’t any! The performances, writing and production elements are all first class and the runtime and series length are perfect for what they needed!
With its phenomenal performances, captivating storylines, and thought-provoking themes – Good Omens 2 is a whimsical divine delight of a series!
X-Geeks 