Note from Marvelous Geeks’ Team: This piece was written during the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strikes. Without the labor of the writers and actors currently on strike, the [series/movie/etc] being covered here wouldn’t exist. We stand with and for them.
The god of mischief is back, and while Marvel’s multiverse is still somewhat of a mess, the performances in Loki Season 2 are phenomenal. When you think that there’s no possible way Tom Hiddleston can outdo himself, he does, diving deeper into the character’s layers with so much subtlety that it makes it all the more intriguing.
There’s no denying how convoluted and detached from an overarching theme Marvel’s Phase 4 was, and the beginning of Phase 5 hasn’t been that much different with the start of Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania. And in many ways, it all begins with Loki’s first season. The introduction of He Who Remains/Kang and the multiverse hasn’t been as smooth in weaving the tapestry as Phase 1’s introduction of Thanos and the Infinity Stones was because much of it relies on an idea that’s so vast, it’s nearly impossible to contain. And in its first four episodes, Loki Season 2 makes the slightest dent. Now, with the upcoming Multiverse Saga, no one expects anything to be solved right away—we’re just hoping it doesn’t become even messier. Thereby, putting aside the plot that’s still clunky at best, the season makes for a solid comeback that’s riveting to watch.
Loki Season 2 Slows Down a Bit, Putting the Characters in the Driver’s Seat
Tom Hiddleston’s titular character is very much still the series’ star, and it’s exceptional to continue watching him add nuance and layers to the former villain. Loki’s growth is outstanding this season, resulting in a particular moment that floored me in every way to think about just how far we’ve come. It’s always been apparent that Hiddleston cares deeply about the character, and every time he walks back into his shoes, he shows it that much more. Further, this season’s slower pacing ultimately allows us to unravel the case a bit more closely, even while we get to know newcomers and catch up with other characters.
Rafael Casal’s X-5 is a riveting character right from the start, and the role he plays in the plot thus far is no small feat. Those who watched Blindspotting know of Casal’s talents won’t be shocked by any of this, but those unfamiliar might find themselves as new fans. Again, while the first four episodes aren’t and shouldn’t be expected to solve any big mysteries, the process of unwinding time allows viewers to understand the TVA’s purpose and, most importantly, the characters better.
The chemistry between Owen Wilson’s Mobius and Hiddleston’s Loki is better than ever, bringing to our screens the kind of partnership that results in hearty entertainment. The character journeys consistently feel earned, and how they each come to the revelations that they do showcases the thoughtful writing that goes into establishing something special with this series. MCU shows don’t often stick the landing the same way the films do, but there’s something about Loki that remains entirely admirable for the story it’s telling, and it’s the detail that it consistently honors the characters and their dynamics.
There’s a straightforward, underlying theme woven into the heart of Loki Season 2: the persistence to keep going, even amid the uncertainties. The idea to continue trying despite how hard it gets is a pivotal part of the narrative arc while characters come together through different sets of time and separate. As chaotic and glitchy as the plot is, the point is clear as day. And sometimes, that’s what sticks out in the end. Spider-Man: Far From Home isn’t about the multiverse either; it’s a love letter to found families. And if nothing else, in its first four episodes, Loki Season 2 is a love letter to hope.
Loki Season 2 will premiere on Disney+ on Thursday October 5.