TV SERIES REVIEW
Based on a True Story - Season 2
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Genre: Comedy, Thriller
Year Released: 2023-, season 2 2024
Runtime: 8 x 30m episodes
Created by: Craig Rosenberg
Cast: Kaley Cuoco, Chris Messina, Tom Bateman, Priscilla Quintana, Liana Liberato, Natalia Dyer
Where To Watch: all episodes for season two will premiere on Peacock on November 21, 2024

RAVING REVIEW: Three months into their foray into parenthood, Ava (Kaley Cuoco) and Nathan Bartlett (Chris Messina) grapple with the ordinary challenges of new parents and the extraordinary complications of reviving their respective careers. Ava's pivot back to real estate diverges from her recent true-crime podcast obsession, while Nathan returns to his roots as a tennis coach. However, their efforts to normalize life are shattered by a sinister wave of criminal activity that drags them unwillingly back into the dark corridors they've tried to leave behind. In BASED ON A TRUE STORY: SEASON 2, the narrative seamlessly throws personal struggles and mystery all into the fold, hooking viewers with its intricate blend of drama and enigma.

The new season sees Ava and Nathan's lives increasingly entangled with chaos and danger, mainly through their connection with Matt (Tom Bateman,) whose suspicious activities hint at his involvement in activities he was said to have left behind in season one. The stakes are heightened by Ava's sister Tory (Liana Liberato,) whose romantic ties with Matt draw the whole family into a whirlpool of suspense. Tory takes on a much more prominent and welcome role in season two. Season two is a close tie for me in terms of enjoyment as season one; they almost feel like one extended season, so it’s hard to differentiate.

BASED ON A TRUE STORY offers a clever satire of the true-crime genre. The season stitches together dark humor and gripping suspense, reflecting the Bartletts' murky moral choices. Their dubious alliances and the repercussions of their past actions are spotlighted against scrutiny from the true crime world and more, portraying their fight to safeguard their most cherished possessions.

The second season entertains on the same level as the first but delves deep into the collective true-crime obsession, merging individual conflicts with broader themes. The story is rich in psychological intricacies and ethical problems, challenging audiences to reconsider their perspectives on morality and justice.

Throughout this season, the Bartletts' attempts to sever ties with their murky past are consistently hindered by crimes eerily resembling those of the notorious Westside Ripper. These troubling events compel Ava and Nathan to face the harsh realities of their previous decisions and the moral dilemmas of their current predicament.

The performances of Cuoco and Messina anchor the series, providing a raw and potent depiction of a couple trapped by extraordinary circumstances. Bateman's portrayal of Matt adds an element of unpredictability that keeps the audience guessing his every move. The dynamic ensemble cast, including Liberato’s Tory, ensures each scene has emotion and resonance.

The creators have skillfully balanced humor and tension, forging a storyline that plunges into the heart of the true-crime frenzy. This season delves further into the complexities of its characters, exploring themes of ambition and ethics. It invites viewers to reflect on their interaction with true-crime content and its implications on societal views of justice and morality.

BASED ON A TRUE STORY: SEASON 2 expands on its predecessor by exploring its characters' challenges from a different point of view. With its dark humor and thrilling suspense blend, the series entertains and stimulates thoughtful reflection on our fascination with true crime. As Ava and Nathan navigate a life riddled with danger and mystery, the series encourages us to consider where mere fascination ends and active participation begins.

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[photo courtesy of PEACOCK]

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