Though without diving into spoilers, Kitsch doesn't have as many scenes as the other actors in here.Īlso, True Detective does allow itself to play more into different ambient styles of storytelling, including an elaborate, yet absorbing, David Lynch-esque dream sequence at the beginning of the second episode involving a Conway Twitty impersonator that is undeniably Season 2's strongest scene. The weak link is undoubtedly Taylor Kitsch, who is a total flatline. Vaughn is also given some of the worst lines to read in the series, but he does convey a mix of menace and somberness that made it a nice departure from his comedy roles. Farrell and McAdams, in particular, are quite good as Detective Raymond Velcoro and Detective Sergeant Antigone 'Ani' Bezzerides, respectively.

The dialogue isn't as piercing this time around, but Colin Farrell, Rachel McAdams, Kelly Reilly and even Vince Vaughn turn in some impressive performances. These shortcomings make it evident why this season didn't work quite so well, but it's not entirely bad.įor all its messiness, True Detective Season 2 is benefitted enormously by another strong ensemble. While Justin Lin directed the first two episodes, the rest of the second season was helmed by a variety of different filmmakers, resulting in a season that lacks the clear and concise style of the story told before it. The filmmaker helmed the first season in its entirety, and that sharp, very confident vision resulted in the lavish cinematic feel that made True Detective much better than your average detective procedural show. This quickly ticking, ticking, ticking, ticking clock resulted in a notably more rushed and scattered season, lacking the same precision, patience, depth and nuance that made the first season so invigorating, distinctive and impeccable.Īdditionally, the absence of director Cary Joji Fukunaga was noticeably felt. Nic Pizzolatto had all the time in the world to write that excellent first season, but HBO was hungry for that second season, and it wasn't looking to wait intently. The first season was written and carefully constructed after years of diligent work, and the second season simply didn't have that same luxury. Yet, despite its earnest intentions to expand itself and craft a new story that wasn't merely a copycat of its former glory, True Detective Season 2 falls short of its past success for a number of different reasons. The ambition was grandeur, the scope was much larger and the drive was longer. As a result, this season opted for more of an interweaving storyline centered around criminals and crime-fighters alike rather than a nonlinear two-sided character study that centered around hazy, yet never forgotten memories, burning disgruntlements, dark vengeance and past injustices.

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