The Path, Hulus psychological drama, returns with a vengeance in a second season that ups the stakes.
The Path Season 2 Hulu
It only works when you believe.
Because once you pull that thread it just turns to nothing, right in your hands.
And man oh man, does this show ever evolve.
Now more than ever, its about a tug of war between belief systems.
Most characters are frantically trying to catch up from the events of last years finale.
Cal is in an especially large pickle.
After last years primer, were also less in shock and awe of Meyerisms rules and restrictions.
As a result, it makes sense that the people involved in Meyerism are experiencing wavering faith.
Theres less of a focus on enforcing rules and the schism between deniers and normalcy.
Simple everyday moments are capable of turning into overwhelming sensory experiences for Eddie and warps his Meyerism-adled mind.
Its a great juxtaposition between last years premiere.
This is his new world to make sense of, even if it is his original, old world.
This year shows Meyerism continuing to expand and grow, which shouldnt be surprising.
In fact, she acts as the perfect foil to dampen Cals bullshit and keep him in check.
Its just a matter of time until shes unable to put up with him anymore.
In reality though, Cal just keeps making matters worse.
Visions are played with in a meticulous way.
Characters beyond Cal act in big ways, underlining the idea that devotion can be a really dangerous thing.
Especially when the characters involved really dont know whats going on.
Its certainly a thread throughout the year, but one that is much stronger in the seasons first half.
As Cal, Dancy employs such glorious micro gestures as his gears tick away.
It illustrates just how layered and volatile all of these characters are.
This season certainly isnt afraid to have fun with the audiences growing hatred of Cal.
That being said, the season isnt without its moments where it attempts to create pathos for the monster.
In one pained reveal, Cal describes his mental state as the following.
Its a living, waking hell.
I am never without regret…Its never not within me.
So some sympathy for the devil is certainly being played with here, too.
Its also worth mentioning thatThe Pathssecond season sees an expansion to thirteen episodes from last years ten.
None of this feels like gratuitous, manipulative storytelling thats done just to stir a reaction.
Aaron Paul brings his true A-game when it comes to the material regarding Hawk.
These scenes are all so icky and off-putting as Hawk strives for approval and Cal continues to manipulate.
In spite of it being productive strides for his character, it still is kind of eye-roll inducing.
A handful of new personalities also get to shine this year.
Hes a strong, necessary dissenting voice against Cal that can do what Sarah is otherwise incapable of.
Everyone is playing huge games of chicken with one another this year.
When arent season-longChinatownallusions worth doing?
Besides you know what they do to deniers, dont you?
The Pathssecond season begins streaming January 25th, exclusively on Hulu.
This review is based on all thirteen hour-long episodes fromThe Pathssecond season
Rating:
4 out of 5
