If we talk about Good Omens season one, it’s hard not to praise it for being a perfect adaptation that remains faithful to the original vision of the story. Neil Gaiman, the author and director, often explore ethereal plans rooted in history, beliefs, and dreams in his work. But what stands out the most is Gaiman’s ability to always bring the characters’ humanity to the forefront, reminding us of the precious and beautiful aspects of being human. Good Omens Season 2 takes everything to it whole new level and beyond.
The focus here is undeniably on Crawley and Aziraphale, their journey taking center stage without any grand overarching God narrator or apocalypse. Instead, the spotlight shines on the angels, with a couple of intriguing new characters. It’s a fresh perspective that keeps you enthralled throughout the season.
The second season is a thrilling mystery, centered around the angel Gabriel, portrayed by Jon Hamm, who suffers from amnesia. His situation sets off a chain of events that become the driving force behind the entire story. The hows and whys of his amnesia weave an intriguing mystery that keeps us hooked throughout the season. But let’s make it clear, this season is a delightful fan service in the best possible way. Amidst all the chaos and humorous take on bureaucracy, the heart of the story lies in witnessing two best friends – or lovers – as they navigate their way through caring for humanity, people, and especially each other as they grow older.
The main story of the season often becomes boring, making us sigh every time it continues. Some of the side plots are a mix of creative and lazy, which doesn’t work well. Aziraphale and Crowley find themselves intervening in the lives of two people, Maggie and Nina, who run shops on a vibrant, retro English street. It’s like a colorful, cartoonish place, similar to Paddington. The show embraces shamelessly cheesy romcom pleasures, as Crowley uses a scheme he borrowed from a Richard Curtis film to make these ordinary folks fall in love.
David Tennant and Michael Sheen are genuinely Crowley and Aziraphale incarnated, and they delivered another outstanding performance. The central duo are terrifically charming and the conceit is as clever as it is in the novel. Tennant delivers lines like that with full-on tooth-baring and hip-snaking flair. If you thought he and Sheen were a bit excessive before, now they are even more over-the-top.
The flashy presentation of the new season highlights the impression that Gaiman, who claims it was inspired by a conversation he had with Pratchett in 1989 about a second book, seemed a bit unsure about how to approach the recommission. To find fresh ideas, he now shares the main-writer credit with someone new, and that person is none other than British comedy connoisseur John Finnemore. The lighter touch of Sir Pratchett was clearly missing. The Prime Video TV series could’ve been more funnier.
The show’s portrayal of heaven and hell is deliberately depicted as realistic, minimalist, and dull, offering a distinct reinterpretation of the myths and conventions found in religious texts. Yet, like Good Omens, the core theme remains unaltered: the significance of free will and the strength required to wield it. While this season may not be as plot-driven as the first, it compensates with an abundance of charm, emotional depth, and idiosyncratic humor that may remind viewers of other works but still possesses its own distinctive essence.
Good Omens Season 2 is on Prime Video.
