“Euphoria” season 2 exceeds its euphoric expectations
Ava Memarzadeh, Staff Writer
The latest episode of Euphoria season two, written by Sam Levinson, came out Feb. 13 on HBO Max. The show has unmatched visuals, a captivating plot and shines light on various stigmatized and otherwise forgotten social issues. Euphoria, season two in particular, is an outlet to sympathize with and see different issues from other perspectives. It is one of very few shows that offers its audience a differing perspective on life, and does it graciously, with impeccable music and cinematography.
Characters are further analyzed in this season which allows you to dive deeper into the show’s story. A large portion of an episode is dedicated to everyone’s favorite bachelor on the show, Fezco (Angus Cloud), and viewers are introduced to his childhood and his growing friendship with Lexie (Maude Apatow). The character Rue (Zendaya) has also been developing, and there have been countless impressive scenes that Zendaya has aced. Specifically, in episode five, Rue’s family finds out that she has relapsed and her scenes are gut wrenching and intensely emotional. Viewers’ eyes are opened to the lives of addicts and their families. The development of Nate and Cassie’s stomach turning affair, left many on the edge of their seats to watch the couple’s potential demise. The season is a raw representation of imperfect characters, that people are not otherwise introduced to or told to listen to. Every character has their own issues that not everyone has personally dealt with. Viewers are exposed to the topics of addiction, sexuality, trauma and mental illness, as well as more generic teenage issues. Those who watch are able to see the background of characters, their progression and what made them the current person they are. In the episode, aired Feb. 8, we are able to see a realistic representation of an addict and the toll it takes on a person and their family. There are few shows that are able to do so realistically, making Euphoria stand out.
The music played, also, perfectly compliments the season. The music is not generic, but tailored to every scene’s exact mood. Brought together with the camera work and lighting to make the scenes come together perfectly. An exemplary instance is when the song “Dead of Night” by Orville Peck is played in episode one when Cassie (Sydney Sweeny) gets into the car with Nate (Jacob Elordi). The music contributes to the tension in the car and the voice in the song creates a seductive, yet unsettling atmosphere. Other great songs are introduced in the show, many by the artist “Labrinth.”
It is also important to note that the season is very intense emotionally, and viewers need to beware of the graphic scenes. The rawness of the scenes are often a lot to handle, and it definitely isn’t a show you can relax and escape your worries with. With that being said, the show can be a bit traumatizing. Let’s be honest, full frontal nudity isn’t always a scene you want to see on a Sunday evening before school. The intense season may not be for everyone.
Overall, the second season has been a rollercoaster of emotions, and the highlight of many weekends. The show does a great job with its cast and acting, as well as its visuals.
Episodes come out every Sunday on HBO Max.
Maddy (Alexa Demie) yelling at Cassie (Sydney Sweeney) over relationship struggles in episode five.