Warning: This article contains SPOILERS for The Witcher Season 2

Although The Witcher Season 2 saw some disappointed fans, critics seemed to have an entirely different response. As they lauded the franchise with praises. However, the series once again falls into the same trap set by its predecessor. Netflix’s immensely successful fantasy adaptation is majorly instilled with carelessly developed characters and confusing narratives.

While the idea should get audiences to pay more attention to what’s going on, it falls flat regardless. But not everything about the show screams black despondency. The Witcher Season 2 tried and succeeded in improving many things for itself. The budding relationship between Ciri and Geralt as well as Yennefer’s overall character growth remain to be the main focus. And yet, there is plenty to do for The Witcher’s brighter future.  

The Witcher Season 2 – A Brief Overview

Right now, The Witcher Season 2 stands triumphant at a 90% critical consensus score on Rotten Tomatoes. However, the audience score is a mere 60%. This shows that the density of unhappy audiences is higher as compared to the critics. Season 2 picks up right after the climactic finale of The Witcher Season 1.

At the devastating Battle of Sodden Hill, Yennefer of Vengerberg accesses the forbidden fire magic. And while her side ultimately wins against the Nilfgaardian army, she does face the consequences of her actions. Meanwhile, monster slayer Geralt of Rivia finally unites with his child surprise Ciri, and takes on his paternal responsibilities for the Princess of Cintra. The two then travel to Kaer Morhen to stay with the other Witchers.

On their way, they end up fighting a bruxa. And once there, Geralt’s friend Eskel transforms into a Leshy. Ultimately forcing Geralt to kill him. Towards the end of the series, the demon Voleth Meir possesses Ciri. And after a thrilling action sequence, the Deathless Mother releases herself. And Ciri goes back to Geralt and Yennefer, who are determined to protect her as the narrative advances into Season 3.

Also Read : The Witcher Disregards A Major Screenwriting Rule, And Risks The Future

The Witcher Lacks In Screenwriting

Season 1 of The Witcher made some recognizable mistakes. And it continues to do so with the recent outing. The second season introduces a plethora of new characters and storylines without giving audiences enough time to thoroughly explore either. These include significant entries by dark mage Rience and Sigismund Dijkstra, played by Castlevania veteran Graham McTavish. It appears as The Witcher lacks majorly in its storytelling elements.

Regardless of topping with impressive action sequences and engrossing music as well as visual effects. The show’s dialogue game is either dead on precise, or too corny. There is no middle ground. Which makes it harder for viewers to stay interested in the main storyline. Despite the remarkable performances from The Witcher’s good bunch of actors, the show does not manage to flatten its screenwriting mistakes.  

Wines Made By The Witcher Season 2

With that said, the series has done an amazing job at incorporating its three main characters. Thus turning them into fan favorites. The Witcher Season 2 particularly focuses on developing the relationship between Geralt and Ciri. Stars Henry Cavill and Freya Allan certainly get along well. Which is why, regardless of the show’s over-the-top dialogue, the two manage to form a close bond that is portrayed by their splendid performances.

On the other hand, Yennefer also sees major improvement as her character undergoes various hardships. After losing her magical abilities as a repercussion of the Battle of Sodden Hill, the character is desperate. This makes it possible for Yennefer’s actor Anya Chalotra to boast about her acting skills more than her appearance in the previous season. 

Also Read : The Witcher Season 2 Alters Yennefer’s Narrative To A Disappointing Extent

The Witcher Season 2’s Poorly Constructed New Characters

However, the bigger picture of The Witcher Season 2 still puts the show in the same position in screenwriting as Season 1. New characters like Francesca Findabair and Gage see absolutely no backstory revelation before they are introduced into the mix. When Francesca’s child is killed, it was supposed to ignite an honest and empathic emotion among viewers.

Seeing Francesca’s intense reaction was a disheartening visual. But the audience simply didn’t care enough about the character to connect with her. Which made the scene empty because Francesca’s character was not written well. The story gave her no personal attributes for the audience to relate to her. Unfortunately, she does not stand alone in the category. Every character except Geralt, Ciri, Yennefer, the other witchers, and Jaskier, are the victims of an underwritten narrative.  

The Promise For A Better Narrative Ahead

While The Witcher Season 2 is evidently better than the first season, the change is only small. It comfortably highlights the story of the three protagonists. The series delivers thrilling action, bloody fights, and terrifying monsters. But the idea of telling an enormous story filled with a huge cast makes it impossible for the show to flesh out its side characters emotively. Which ultimately leaves audiences unbothered by their respective fateful arcs.

Tragically, critics did not find this mistake to be a major one. And if The Witcher wants to become a franchise as big as Game of Thrones and cement its place in the Fantasy TV genre, the creators must work harder.