Key Takeaways:
– Jason Segel’s “Shrinking” returns on Apple TV+ for season 2 after a 19-month hiatus.
– The second season shies away from its original premise, becoming less focused and tonally ambiguous.
– Co-creator Brett Goldstein takes on a significant role aimed at exploring Jimmy and Alice’s trauma processing.
The Transformed Narrative of “Shrinking”
After a prolonged break, “Shrinking” is back for a second season, only this time it departs from its original basis. The show’s initial concept revolved around therapist Jimmy Laird, played by Jason Segel, disregarding professional ethics following his wife’s death. The narrative was a controversial view of therapy, but its bold idea formed its strong foundation. However, as season 2 kicks off, the storyline no longer hinges on its debut idea, resulting in a lack of focus and tonal confusion.
“Shrinking” is a product of a collaboration between Segel and “Ted Lasso” team members Bill Lawrence and Brett Goldstein. The show primarily deals with Jimmy’s widowhood and the resulting whims he falls prey to. Nevertheless, his antics don’t mark an innovative development for his professional peers. Rather, they’re simply a catalyst for some lightly comical situations. The show’s limited focus on therapy practice leaves it seemingly unoccupied, diverting its attention elsewhere.
A Continued Focus on Mourning
Despite the shifts, “Shrinking” Season 2 continues to delve into the extended grieving process. Brett Goldstein, moving beyond his role of co-creator, negotiates a critical character representation linked to the trauma processing of Jimmy and Alice.
Goldstein’s particular character role is thought to be a spoiler, yet it provides ample occasions for the artist to exhibit emotional depth both verbally and visually. Whether this is a bid to showcase Goldstein’s dramatic skills or an unnecessary diversion from “Ted Lasso’s” comical Roy Kent remains debatable.
Watch “Shrinking” on Apple TV+
Apple TV+ enthusiasts can already stream the first two episodes of “Shrinking,” with the remaining episodes ready for viewing every Wednesday.
Season 2 Review Verdict
“Shrinking” Season 2 seems to have lost some focus as it strays from its basic premise of the first season. While the series continues to address the complexities of grief and mourning, the second season has altered its course, becoming tonally muddled. This change leaves viewers wondering how the plot will unfold going forward and whether it can regain its initial traction.
To sum up, “Shrinking” Season 2 invites viewers back into Jimmy’s world, this time focusing more on mourning and less on the therapeutic profession. Whether the season can recover its grip on viewers with its altered storyline remains to be seen, making it an interesting journey to follow. Though the show has shifted its focus, it continues to offer a blend of emotional depth and comic relief that may still attract viewers seeking a balanced dose of drama and humor.