The Evolution of Animation: How the Season 2 Expands the World and Deepens the Story

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TV SERIES REVIEW
Genndy Tartakovsky's Primal: The Complete Second Season
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Genre: Animation, Action, Adventure
Year Released: 2019 – (2023 Blu-ray S2)
Runtime: 10 x 22m episodes
Creator: Genndy Tartakovsky
Where To Watch: available Blu-ray & DVD now

RAVING REVIEW: It's been a few years since PRIMAL's first season captivated its audience and broke new ground in modern adult animation. It's time to see if the second season has managed to step up its game, delivered more of the same, or went backward in quality.

In season 2 of PRIMAL, we follow Spear (Aaron LaPlante) as he takes on a daring mission to rescue his new companion, Mira (Laëtitia Eïdo), from mysterious enemies. Joined by his trusty dinosaur sidekick, Fang, they journey through uncharted lands. The season shifts from the self-contained episodes of season 1 to a more cohesive narrative arc. While some aspects of season 1 are missed, the new story makes up for it with the exhilarating tale that highlights Spear's determination while revealing the harsh realities of their world.

I enjoyed how they could mix in more characters while keeping the first season's tone and feel relatively unchanged. Furthermore, the show examines diverse regions in this world, expanding storytelling and character development possibilities. I had some minor issues with the second season's conclusion, but as a whole, it was a solid follow-up for this unique project. It’s hard enough to make a successful animation, let alone an adult animation, and even hard when there’s next to no dialogue to progress the story. Character growth is primarily achieved through actions and visual storytelling, and it's an almost cerebral experience. Composers Tyler Bates and Joanne Higginbottom return to create a captivating score that is the backbone of the series.

Under the watchful eye of creator Genndy Tartakovsky, PRIMAL's second season demonstrates continued artistry. The animation team builds upon their stellar work from season one, integrating increased detail, fluid motion, inventive cinematography, and breathtaking action sequences. Although I appreciate that it felt more like an expansion of season one than anything “brand new.” The graphic action scenes might not be everyone's cup of tea; however, they are a part of this world and are necessary to show how raw this period their world would have been. The series thrives in exploring “friendship,” survival, and the human condition amid brutality and sorrow.

Tartakovsky and his team's outstanding efforts are evident, offering audiences a visually stunning and thought-provoking journey. PRIMAL is a must-watch series for anyone who appreciates animated storytelling and captivating narratives.

SPECIAL FEATURES:
Genndy Tartakovsky's Primal: Inside the Evolution (New Featurette) – Go Inside the Evolution of the Emmy award-winning show with Genndy Tartakovsky and his team. They share their inspiration behind the second season and how a four-legged friend inspired one of the most beloved characters.

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[photo courtesy of ADULT SWIM/WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY]