Pachinko Season 2 Drops at AppleTV+

AppleTV+'s Pachinko is back for an all new season and we have some thoughts.

Season 2 of Pachinko builds on the solid foundation laid by the first season and refines its approach to storytelling. The creative adjustments and focus on character-driven narratives seem to enhance the show's overall impact. Showrunner Soo Hugh's ability to intertwine past and present while maintaining thematic resonance is a notable achievement. The change in directors, with Leanne Welham, Arvin Chen, and Sang-il Lee taking the helm, has contributed positively to the show's cohesion and narrative flow.

The integration of the various timelines and the way they reflect on each other is particularly intriguing. By highlighting past mistakes and their implications for the future, the series deepens its exploration of its themes, such as mercy and survival. The shift from the more overloaded feel of the first season to a more polished and connected storytelling approach in Season 2 is a significant improvement, making for a more engaging and insightful viewing experience. It seems that the creative liberties taken in adapting the source material have paid off, allowing the show to stand out as a compelling piece of television in 2024.

Season 2 of Pachinko not only maintains but deepens the connection to Min Jin Lee’s novel. Expanding story arcs and allowing characters like Solomon and Sunja to undergo more profound development seems to add significant depth to the series. By providing Solomon with more opportunities for personal growth and exploring Sunja's loneliness, the show gains a richer emotional landscape.

The continuation of core themes such as the immigrant experience and generational trauma, while introducing broader themes like injustice and guilt, helps make the story resonate with a wider audience. The contrast between the wartime challenges faced by Sunja’s family and Solomon's struggles in the late 20th century provides a compelling narrative structure, linking personal and historical conflicts across generations.

In particular, the shift in focus to the younger Sunja's experience during World War II and the subsequent fallout for her family adds layers to the story. Hansu’s role as a complex figure from Sunja’s past and the portrayal of Solomon's escalating desperation and revenge highlight the series’ commitment to exploring the long-lasting impacts of past actions and systemic injustice. This approach not only enriches the characters' arcs but also deepens the audience's engagement with the themes of survival and redemption.

It’s clear that the second season has addressed some of the first season’s shortcomings by giving characters more depth and meaningful connections to the plot. The decision to focus more on individual storylines and allow characters to have their moments of development enriches the ensemble and provides a more cohesive narrative. The spotlight on Yoseb in the fifth episode, especially with the powerful use of black-and-white cinematography and the haunting ticking of the soundtrack, highlights the series' commitment to exploring the profound impacts of historical events on personal lives. By allowing Yoseb to rebuild and find peace despite his suffering, the show offers a nuanced perspective on recovery and resilience.

Overall, it seems that Season 2 not only improves upon the structural and narrative aspects of the first season but also maintains and elevates the series’ visual and emotional impact.

Check out the trailer for season 2 and let us know your thoughts in the comments.