BLINDSPOTTING (Season 2) -- The Spin-Off Brilliantly Grows Into Its Own

Review by Sean Boelman

After a two-year gap between seasons, the Starz series Blindspotting returns to continue the stories of these once-side characters in the beloved indie gem. It was well worth the wait, as the massive amount of talent in the show have managed to deliver a second season that not only tops the first, but also the film on which it is based.

This season picks up with Miles (Rafael Casal) and Ashley (Jasmine Cephas Jones) having been married, preparing for their first conjugal visit after Miles has been transferred. Of course, this is only the tip of the iceberg, as we get to see all of the drama happening with their friends and family.

The focus this season is again on the relationship between Miles and Ashley. And while the central conflict is somewhat predictable — there are only so many directions they can take this story after all — the uncommon empathy with which it is explored makes the show as compelling as it is.

With Season 2, Blindspotting has proven itself to be one of the most creative shows on television right now. Whether it’s the many rap-based musical numbers that happen throughout the series, or an entire episode structured as a Western, the show is constantly experimenting with form — in both its writing and direction — and it makes many of these extraordinarily ambitious shots

As one would expect, the show also tackles some weighty themes. As Miles and Ashley’s son, Sean (Atticus Woodward), grows up and becomes more aware, we also get to experience more of the conflict through his eyes. Part of the reason this works so well is Woodward’s performance which is super charming and very endearing.

Of course, the entire cast is firing on all cylinders. Season 2 offers expanded roles to Benjamin Earl Turner and Jaylen Barron. Both of their characters primarily served as comedic relief in the first season, but get to do something much deeper this time around. Turner especially stuns, particularly when he gets the chance to rap.

However, this show is very much built on the back of Jones, and she is simply astounding here. Although she has always been great in this role, it feels like she’s really been able to find where she thrives in the character at this point. And while this season offers her fewer opportunities to showcase her musicality, she flexes her acting chops like never before.

Season 2 of Blindspotting has taken this show from being good to being great. Whereas the first one felt like it was desperately trying to do its own thing, this one manages to do so effortlessly. In more confidently stepping out of the film’s shadow, the series becomes one of the best around.

Blindspotting debuts on Starz on April 14 at 9pm ET/PT. All eight episodes reviewed.

​Rating: 5/5