TV Writer Rani Jadfa reviews the first episode, celebrating the excellent pacing and chemistry of the actors
The God of Mischief is back. A roller coaster of a first episode gives an exciting set-up for season two of the gloriously beloved Marvel show: Loki.
At the end of season one fans were left on a drastic cliffhanger. Loki (Tom Hiddleston) works with Mobius (Owen Wilson) and the TVA to track down another Loki variant – Sylvie (Sophia Di Martino). Together they discover the TVA’s corruption and journey to its source. At the end of time itself, they find the man behind the curtain: He Who Remains (Jonathan Majors). A final battle of morale between Loki – who surprisingly takes the high ground – and Sylviex leads to an emotional kiss goodbye as Loki is thrust back into the TVA.
But there’s one tiny problem: nobody remembers who Loki is.
Some viewers felt that the season one finale rushed itself to the finish line to answer all questions and set up season two. Nevertheless, this new episode carries a similar galloping speed, but I would argue sticks the landing much better.
In season two’s opening, it is as if we never left the trickster behind as it picks up right where we left off. Although it is only the first episode of the show, these forty-seven minutes hit that Marvel sweet spot.
These forty-seven minutes hit that Marvel sweet spot
The pacing was laced with intensity and chaos – would it really be a homage to Loki without some chaos? This came through the frequent use of tracking shots, creating a sense of constant movement. Natalie Holt’s return as composer also gave a layer of imminent rising tension through the use of air raid sirens and the weaving of established character themes.
A key aspect of the first season was the buddy-cop relationship between Loki and Mobius, which was something fans wanted to see more of. Luckily, our prayers have been answered.
The natural repertoire of the two acting legends returns in full force. Their natural chemistry practically spills out of the screen. I didn’t think this dynamic duo could get any better, but the addition of the titular new character Ouroboros (recent Oscar-winner, Ke Huy Quan) proves me wrong.
We are in for one hell of a ride
Quan’s scene-stealing combination of charming innocence and acute intelligence seamlessly integrates with the tone of the show. It feels like he is already a well-established character. His incredible presence and quirky characterisation allows him to keep up with Hiddleston and Wilson. I for one cannot wait to see more of this new trio.
The episode continues the action of season one but also sets up a few new mysteries that we will have to wait patiently to have explained. If Loki manages to maintain this level of tension, intrigue, and humour then we are in for one hell of a ride.
P.S. Look out for the cheeky little mid-credit scene after the episode!
Rating: 5/5
Read more from TV here:
Comments