As I reiterate from my initial critique of the first season, I must emphasize once more: I am entirely unfamiliar with the HALO universe. I have neither played the games nor grasped the dynamics of the universe. I did not feel the need to conduct research to enjoy the series, until the conclusion of the second season. The second season, ending at a far more intriguing point than the first, compelled me to delve into exploration and discover what lies ahead in the third season. While those well-versed in the game may accuse the series of being entirely distinct from it, they have a point; however, it doesn’t significantly alter my perspective. HALO is a splendid series, further evidenced by its viewership numbers, demonstrating that many, like myself, find enjoyment in the series.
As I have reiterated numerous times on my Twitter account, I echo it here: HALO stands as the premier action series among current active shows. Its placement within the science fiction genre only serves to elevate its action to a more aesthetic level. Despite the criticisms from fans of the game, HALO’s first season, alongside House of the Dragon, stood as the pinnacle of 2022’s television offerings. The fear of whether successful series can maintain the same quality in their second seasons is ever-present. However, HALO’s second season not only maintains but surpasses the quality of the first, offering a magnificent spectacle.
The second season encompasses a multitude of themes. While depicting the chaos ensuing after Reach is officially surrendered to the Covenant, on the other hand, the narrative, particularly with its finale, intertwines with The Flood. As someone entirely ignorant of the universe, the struggle between humans and Covenant over the Halo was compelling enough for me. However, with the introduction of The Flood, courtesy of Dr. Halsey’s storyline, the series takes on a new dimension. Thus, the series transitions from a marathon between two races bent on mutual destruction to a struggle for survival. The promise of the third season being entirely distinct from its predecessors is assured, underscored by the removal of several significant characters.
What sets HALO apart as successful is its effects, closely resembling the game’s graphics. Especially in action sequences, the series adopts a full FPS style, resulting in magnificent visuals. Scenes such as the fall of Reach in the second season, the Spartan team’s unwavering focus on their objective amidst space chaos as they head towards the ship, Master Chief’s duel with The Arbiter, and The Flood’s zombie-like invasion are all executed with remarkable success in terms of visuals, choreography, and tension. Following Pablo Schreiber’s ambitious statements, my expectations for the season were genuinely high, and the series managed to meet these expectations from start to finish.
Moreover, HALO’s spiritual aspect, alongside its action, is also remarkably intriguing. While the first season delves into the characters’ quest for identity within the mystery theme, the second season introduces a more dramatic structure. Particularly commendable is the series’ ability to add depth to Kwan Ha, perhaps the weakest character of the first season, thus integrating the only character who manages to hang on to the story. However, this time, the search for Laera and Soren’s children slows down the narrative pace. Although they succeed in tying up the characters’ arcs in the finale, they remain relatively ineffective throughout the season. I must also express my regret over Fiona O’Shaughnessy’s departure from the series.
While the first season focuses on the mystery surrounding the Spartan team and the discovery of HALO relics, the second season shifts its focus to the theme of deep-state involvement. Admiral Margaret Parangosky’s sacrifice of millions, using James Ackerson as a pawn, is the crux of the series. Parangosky’s ability to execute her plan despite the presence of Master Chief throughout the season is, in fact, the central theme. Billions for millions. However, in the end, the unfortunate discoveries of Dr. Halsey and Dr. Miranda Keyes overshadow everything.
In essence, HALO’s second season surpasses the first, offering its audience a magnificent adventure. It stands as the best action series among current active shows. While not entirely reliant on the game’s origin, its tension and sci-fi atmosphere are superbly crafted. Especially with the finale of the second season, the series seems poised to embark on an entirely new story, suggesting that the third season will offer an even more thrilling adventure.
Cast & Crew
creator: Steven Kane, Kyle Killen
writers: Steven Kane, Kyle Killen
starring: Pablo Schreiber, Shabana Azmi, Natasha Culzac, Olive Gray, Yerin Ha, Bentley Kalu, Kate Kennedy, Charlie Murphy, Jen Taylor, Natascha McElhone, Joseph Morgan, Fiona O’Shaughnessy, Danny Sapani, Bokeem Woodbine, Cristina Rodlo
USA | 2024 | 8 EPISODES |