Review: Abbott Elementary - Season 2
A group of dedicated, passionate teachers -- and a slightly tone-deaf principal -- find themselves thrown together in a Philadelphia public school where, despite the odds stacked against them, they are determined to help their students succeed in life. Though these incredible public servants may be outnumbered and underfunded, they love what they do -- even if they don't love the school district's less-than-stellar attitude toward educating children.
Quinta Brunson, Tyler James Williams, Janelle James, Lisa Ann Walter, Chris Perfetti, William Stanford Davis & Sheryl Lee Ralph.
Abbott Elementary Season 2 doubles in episodes & quality. Reaching a series high of 22 episodes in season 2, it was fair to assume there would be a couple misses where they don’t stick the landing. However, with Quinta’s genius, this is definitely not the case. Season 2 is an even greater step up on every level.
With more episodes, come more time to spend with the characters we grown to absolutely love in the first season. Janine being the primary female focus goes through many ups and downs this season, resulting in a touching, yet ballsy conclusion to the season. Gregory goes through very similar development throughout the season, coming in touch with his feelings and what he really wants in life. Whether it’s becoming a part time gardener, or settling down with the right woman.
Jacob, Ava, Barbara, Mr Johnson & Melissa all are given many moments to shine as incredible comic performers. Often sharing some of the funniest scenes on TV currently. Quinta and the entire writers room constantly give their actors so much room to improvise and exaggerate all kind of lines that felt far too natural to be entirely written. Guest stars such as Ayo Edebiri, Taraji P. Henson, Keyla Monterroso Mejia & Leslie Odom Jr. make for some fantastic short performances whom worked themselves well into the overarching story surrounding Abbott. No one is underperformed or useless for comic effect.
Quinta & the entire writers room are constantly proving themselves to be endlessly talented. Handling 22 episodes is no easy feat, yet they consistently wrote engaging and exciting storylines for each episode that work for all. As well as the series bringing in a lot more cute & beautiful moments between teachers and students, particularly a conversation that Barbara has with a young boy mid season.
Every camera pull out & push in are necessary to capture the sublime comedy at full effect. Every actor shines in their own way, never outdoing one another with all their terrific chemistry with each actor. The storylines individually and overarching are engaging, adorable and forever entertaining. With Quinta & Tyler as this seasons highlights. Season 2 is far from disappointing. We need more as soon as possible.
