Peacemaker: Season 2 Review

The second season of Peacemaker flexes more of an introspective muscle than the first, but its parallel dimensions storyline is one ripped from the worlds of the comic books.

As a result, what transpires over the five episodes screened for critics feels less urgent and fresh before with some episodes feeling like a repeat of what's already gone on earlier in the season.

This time, Chris Smith aka Peacemaker is struggling to find his place in the world. Haunted by his own inadequacies and unsure if he can be ever redeemed, he's roundly mocked when auditioning to join the Justice Gang.

Equally adrift is Emilia Harcourt, cast out from ARGUS and choosing random bone-crunching bar fights to heal the pain of rejection.

But when Smith comes across another dimension where all his hurt is healed and perfection seems like the cure, he faces a terrible decision.

The second season of Peacemaker is a bit more muted and occasionally less enjoyable than the first.

Yet make no mistake, it's not lacking the R-rated edge that singled out it last time.

With titles that uses Foxy Shazam's Oh Lord for its opening dance number through to expanded roles for some of the (surprise) returning characters, the series wants to differentiate itself this time around and cement its place in the wider DC universe.

Cena is watchable enough as the scowling Smith, whose main facial MO this time is being butt hurt and while the moping works well, there are moments in the parallel world where you can really see his torment coming to the fore. (To say more is to spoil the surprises).

Elsewhere, the series' MVP  mvp this time is Steve Agee's John Economos with his trademark snark and utter contempt poured through a prism of disdain providing most of the edge here. There's a real sense of frustration as his put upon, left behind ARGUS agent deals with new bosses and prior loyalties. Agee leans into it and the humour and frustration cuts through the more muted storyline.

But while overall this second season lacks a little oomph with the emotional edges feeling more drawn out than fully satisfying, there are some vicarious joys to be had. 

Whether the conclusion manages to pull it all together remains to be seen - and while the series is enjoyable enough, it feels less urgent than before and less fleshed out than it could be - despite the fine character work on display.

Peacemaker Season 2 premieres on Neon on August 22.