The first season of Wayward Pines was a sleeper hit, it's a good mix of mystery and sci-fi even though it had a few minor setbacks. It then proceeds with another season and almost entirely new batch of cast, literally so. Admittedly, there's still the atmosphere from the old town but the mystery aspect is lacking and for a series that hinges on mystery and revelation, this does not bode well.
Jason Patric as Dr. Yeldin dons the mantle of the main protagonist. It's rare for series to move on with narrative without the bulk of the original cast. Matt Dillon was integral in the first season as a vehicle for audience, he also pushed the investigation and was a strong protagonist. Unfortunately for Jason Patric, he treads the same exact path without the puzzle element.
It's not entirely awful as audience, now aware of the secret, can have a different perspective while Yeldin discovers the true nature, but this can be a bit repetitive. Wayward Pines has changed its style as well, it abandoned the illusion of happiness and opted for totalitarian regime. The militaristic approach does feel different from small town ambiance, though not necessarily more inviting.
The occupants are mostly new, and for those remaining old characters, only Hope Davis presents tie to the old town. A couple of scenes involving Terrence Howard or Carla Gugino are appreciated, yet too fleeting. Rebel versus authority is currently represented by Ben and the new young first generation, which is not the same caliber of Ethan and Pilcher. Granted, they had more time to clash.
What doesn't change much is the foggy afternoon atmosphere or the dimmed night escapade. The basic cinematography look of Wayward Pines remains the same as anchor to the town's original identity and secret. Still, it's shifted from secluded towards oppressed vibe, only missing some propaganda posters on walls.
There might be shiny days for Wayward Pines in the future, but it requires stronger writing than what we've seen from the first episode, preferably before the town loses its attraction.
Jason Patric as Dr. Yeldin dons the mantle of the main protagonist. It's rare for series to move on with narrative without the bulk of the original cast. Matt Dillon was integral in the first season as a vehicle for audience, he also pushed the investigation and was a strong protagonist. Unfortunately for Jason Patric, he treads the same exact path without the puzzle element.
It's not entirely awful as audience, now aware of the secret, can have a different perspective while Yeldin discovers the true nature, but this can be a bit repetitive. Wayward Pines has changed its style as well, it abandoned the illusion of happiness and opted for totalitarian regime. The militaristic approach does feel different from small town ambiance, though not necessarily more inviting.
The occupants are mostly new, and for those remaining old characters, only Hope Davis presents tie to the old town. A couple of scenes involving Terrence Howard or Carla Gugino are appreciated, yet too fleeting. Rebel versus authority is currently represented by Ben and the new young first generation, which is not the same caliber of Ethan and Pilcher. Granted, they had more time to clash.
What doesn't change much is the foggy afternoon atmosphere or the dimmed night escapade. The basic cinematography look of Wayward Pines remains the same as anchor to the town's original identity and secret. Still, it's shifted from secluded towards oppressed vibe, only missing some propaganda posters on walls.
There might be shiny days for Wayward Pines in the future, but it requires stronger writing than what we've seen from the first episode, preferably before the town loses its attraction.