While a series like this idiosyncratic is undoubtedly the best experienced instead described (in case anyone's wondering why this review, based on the first six episodes available to Screen Critics, is a little lighter on specifics), Season 2 really outdoes itself through its expanded sense of scope and scale. A whopping 14 Emmy nominations and overwhelming critical acclaim would give any show a long leash, but Severance wastes no time showing off its bigger budget and ability to take on even bigger changes. It's hard to beat a season already packed with memorable images like baby goats hidden in the deepest recesses of an office building, a waffle party culminating in an erotic dance by performers behind creepy masks, or the sinister torture chamber known as the Rest Room. Believe it or not, this season raises the bar even higher without ever losing sight of what made the show so special to begin with.

Much of the credit should go to Dan Erickson and the creative team, led of course by returning director and executive producer Ben Stiller. Between him and directors Sam Donovan, Uta Brizewitz and more, the series has never looked sharper or more inventive, with zoom shots and handheld shots giving the proceedings a much more chaotic feel. The color palette, lighting, and production design (shout out to director of photography Jessica Lee Gagne, production designer Jeremy Hindle, and, frankly, the entire art department) remain as vivid and vibrant as you remember, adding whole layers of subtext for those that pay great attention to detail. And as the overall narrative direction of Season 2 finally comes into focus around episode three, fans will be delighted by how many new and returning characters are in the spotlight — not just our four main protagonists, but villainous figures like Harmony Cobel (Patricia Arquette), and even Milchick with mild manners and Trammell Tillman scenes. (The introductions of Sarah Bock as Miss Huang and Gwendoline Christie as the Lumon employee rank as standout moments.)

All this to say that, for those worried about the long wait, Severance hasn't lost a single step since its early 2022 debut. Acerbic, witty and catchy to the extreme, it is instantly heralded as the winning streak of 2025. Assuming the writers stick the landing, any fear of over-hyping this phenomenon will seem downright silly. The smartest show on television right now has earned the benefit of the doubt, allowing us to simply enjoy this twisting, mind-bending ride.

/Movie rating: 8 out of 10

Severance Season 2 premieres on Apple TV+ Friday, January 17, 2025.