We recently finished watching Wednesday (season 1) and Arcane (season 2), and we’re near the end of Shrinking (season 2), so I’ll share some quick thoughts and recommendations.
Wednesday
I’m a year late to Wednesday, but I’m glad Megan shared it with me. The titular character is a dark delight, played perfectly by Jenna Ortega. Beyond her, it’s pretty much a Harry Potter book/movie spread across 8 episodes that are only somewhat predictable (I guessed the main antagonist and the red herring within the first episode, but there was another twist I missed later). I hope the show continues to embrace the weirdness in season 2.
Arcane
Arcane is the most visually beautiful show I’ve ever seen.
I could just leave it at that, because that alone would be a reason for me to highly recommend this animated show. But then you add on the characters, plot, worldbuilding, story, and more, and you have something truly special. While season 2 didn’t quite have the character-level heart and plot as season 1, it’s still filled with memorable moments. Also, for better or worse, this is the final season–they had a story to tell, and they told it over 2 seasons, which I commend.
Shrinking
Season 2 of Shrinking on AppleTV continues to follow 3 therapists, some of their clients, and their personal lives. The show delicately balances humor and emotion–it doesn’t stray from powerful topics. I like how the secondary characters have more of the spotlight this season. There’s just one misstep this season (a rash act that goes farther than what seems realistic), but beyond that I’m getting a lot out of this season and would recommend it.
What’s your favorite of these shows? Have you watched anything great lately?
While Arcane is over, they have 3 more stories planned for Runeterra which might feature characters from Arcane. One of the shows started development a year ago apparently. Really looking forward to what comes next if it’s of that quality.
That’s really exciting–thanks for that good news, Paul.
Do you know of any board games that have a similar art style to the Arcane show?
Joy: That’s an excellent question (sorry for the slow answer)! Arcane’s art style is so distinctive. One game that comes to mind a little bit is Altered, a relatively new card game. There’s also Mechs vs Minions, which is set in the same world as Arcane.
Thanks so much! I’m not familiar with Altered, so I am very excited to look that up. I always heard of Mechs vs Minions, but since watching the series I first truly learned it was from this universe…trying to find a copy. 😅
You are right, the show has such a distinctive art style – captivating!
I hope you’re able to find a copy! Unfortunately I think Mechs vs Minions may have gone out of print. But Altered should be available and fairly inexpensive. It’s also on Board Game Arena if you want to try it there first.