Netflix’s Shadow and Bone Season 2 Beams Brightly

Shadow and Bone returns for a second season, now streaming on Netflix. The Sun Summoner, Alina Starkov, is back and better than ever. The first season premiered in April 2021 and the wait for season 2 has been a long one. Thankfully, the eight episodes of Shadow and Bone season 2 deliver in impressive fashion. With quick pacing and a plethora of fascinating characters, fans can rest assured they’re in for a wild ride.

Shadow and Bone season two cast

Although Shadow and Bone features many great characters, Alina Starkov remains the heart of the series. Not only does Jessie Mei Li shine in the role, but Alina’s impact on others is felt throughout the season.

Ben Barnes is magnificent as always. The dynamic between Alina, Barnes’ General Kirigan and Archie Renaux’s Mal Oretsev is superb. New character additions greatly impact these relationships, but the drama from these three alone is enough to carry a series.

The Crows fly in Shadow and Bone season 2

If Alina Starkov is the heart of the series, Kaz Brekker represents the brain. However, it’s a very trauma-filled brain, mind you. Shadow and Bone season 2 spends much more time inside the mind of Kaz Brekker. Freddy Carter continues to deliver emotional gut punches in the role. While Kaz’s inability to open up to his teammates may hinder their relationships, the exploration of his grief makes for captivating television. Although Kaz represents the brains of the series, his fellow Crows depict the aesthetic.

Shadow and Bone season 2 features beautifully choreographed action sequences. Among the finest are those performed by Amita Suman as Inej Ghafa. Much like all the crows, Inej’s character arc is expanded upon throughout season two. She provides much more emotional impact this season, which significantly impacts the stakes of the already amazing action sequences.

In addition to the exhilarating action, Shadow and Bone season 2 is jam-packed with breathtaking visuals. Alina’s sun-summoning and beautiful set pieces deliver stunning visual stimulation. The stylish Jesper Fahey is a perfect representation of these visuals. Kit Young is a star in the role, just as he is in season one. Additionally, much like the visuals, Jesper receives a character arc upgrade in season 2. Explorations into Jesper’s family history and abilities make for an intriguing subplot.

Shadow and Bone season 2 now streaming on Netflix

Maybe it’s excellent storytelling, maybe it’s my ADHD. There are so many storylines going on at once throughout season 2 of Shadow and Bone, but I loved every second. Whether the story checks in on Alina and Mal, General Kirigan, The Crows, or the Ravkan kingdom, it’s captivating throughout.

The story remains focused on the balance between light and dark, regardless of the new characters introduced. The perspective of the story often shifts between characters, however, the overarching plot is always in view. Shadow and Bone season 2 is now streaming on Netflix.

Stay tuned to the Agents of Fandom socials for the latest on Shadow and Bone. You can also find the latest on TV, Film, Gaming, and more on the Agents of Fandom podcast network.