"Based on a True Story" returns for its second season on Peacock, continuing the darkly comedic exploration of America's obsession with true crime. The series follows married couple Ava (Kaley Cuoco) and Nathan (Chris Messina) as they navigate the complexities of parenthood while maintaining their unconventional relationship with Matt (Tom Bateman), a former serial killer turned podcast collaborator.
Season 2 picks up three months into Ava and Nathan's new roles as parents. The couple faces the challenges of early parenthood, sleep deprivation, hygiene and Ava’s ability to produce milk as she feels good mothers must breastfeed. Adjusting to their new dynamic, the couple must also deal with Ava's sister, Tory (Liana Liberato), revealing her engagement to Matt, further intertwining their lives with the former killer.
The show continues to critique the sensationalism surrounding murder and how people commodify tragedy for personal gain. The season reflects how the thirst for fame can lead people down morally questionable paths, especially as Ava and Nathan attempt to control and manipulate their circumstances for their benefit.
A series of new murders makes things quite a bit more complicated. The possibility that Matt is slipping back into his old ways looms over the characters, creating tension. Have they misplaced their trust in Matt? Are they wrong to suspect him? The show does a good job of keeping the viewer on edge, unsure whether Matt is a changed man or simply biding his time until he acts again. Will Tory become his next victim? The recurring theme of trust, or the lack thereof, permeates the season as Ava, Nathan, and Matt's bonds are tested. Ava’s complicated relationship with her morality and the business she has created around true crime forces her to reevaluate the ethical boundaries of what she is willing to tolerate in the name of success.
Melissa Fumero is introduced this season as a recurring character, Drew, who becomes entangled in Ava’s life in a way that I will not spoil during this review. This adds a layer of complexity to the relationship dynamics of the season and increases the stakes.
Kaley Cuoco and Chris Messina once again show that they have chemistry and can continue to deliver strong performances. They capture the nuances of a couple faced with moral ambiguity in their circumstances. Cuoco delivers as she demonstrates Ava's internal conflict, adding depth to her character. Messina's Nathan serves as her more grounded counterpart. The comedic timing between the two adds to the laughs. Tom Bateman's Matt remains excellent in skillfully balancing charm with underlying menace. Liana Liberato's Tory rounds out the main cast and introduces a fresh dynamic; her carefree spirit may be too trusting.
Based on a True Story Season 2 continues to push the boundaries of dark comedy while exploring morality, obsession, and the human desire for fame. Performances from Kaley Cuoco, Chris Messina, and Tom Bateman remain strong and each cast member have chemistry with one another. The series thrives in its examination of the messy, morally grey lives of its characters. There are a few pacing issues, but the season’s engaging exploration of the consequences of fame, ambition, and true crime keeps the viewer invested.
Fans of the first season will find the second installment entertaining; it offers enough twists, turns, and dark humor to keep them tuned in. However, those new to the series may want to start from the beginning to fully appreciate the intricate dynamics, layered storytelling, and characters that make Based on a True Story such a distinctive show.
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