After the tumultuous events of the first season, fans of “The Rig” were eagerly anticipating the return of the Kinloch Bravo crew. Season 2 promised a new setting, new threats, and a deeper dive into the mysteries that plagued the North Sea. However, while the series delivers on its promise of a grander scale and stunning visuals, it unfortunately falters in its narrative execution, leaving viewers with a sense of unfulfilled potential.
Skeleton Crew
Season 2 shifts the action from the familiar Kinloch Bravo to the Stac, a new offshore facility nestled amidst the icy expanse of the Arctic Circle. This change of scenery initially injects a fresh sense of intrigue into the series. The stark, unforgiving environment of the Arctic serves as a constant reminder of the fragility of human life in the face of nature’s raw power.
The crew of the Kinloch Bravo, still reeling from the traumatic events of the previous season, find themselves thrust into a new mystery. The Ancestor, a sentient entity lurking in the depths of the ocean, continues to exert its influence, this time through a series of seismic events that threaten the stability of the Stac.
The introduction of Pictor, a multinational corporation with a vested interest in deep-sea mining, adds another layer of complexity to the narrative. Pictor’s ruthless pursuit of profit, even at the expense of the environment, sets the stage for a conflict between corporate greed and the preservation of the planet.
One of the central themes of Season 2 revolves around the Ancestor and its connection to the crew of the Stac. While the concept of a sentient entity dwelling in the depths of the ocean is intriguing, the series’ explanation of its origins and motivations remains frustratingly vague.
The Ancestor’s ability to communicate through sound frequencies adds a layer of scientific intrigue to the narrative. However, the series often delves into overly technical explanations that can leave viewers feeling lost and confused. The connection between the Ancestor and the characters’ personal experiences is also explored, but these connections often feel forced and underdeveloped.
Season 2 introduces several new characters, some of whom add depth and intrigue to the narrative, while others feel like mere plot devices. Rose Mason, played by Emily Hampshire, takes center stage this season, as she grapples with her newfound connection to the Ancestor and her role in Pictor’s plans. Hampshire delivers a compelling performance, portraying Rose’s internal conflict with nuance and vulnerability.
Magnus MacMillan, played by Iain Glen, takes a backseat this season, as his leadership role is challenged by Rose’s growing influence. While Glen’s performance remains solid, Magnus’s character arc feels somewhat stagnant compared to the previous season.
Fulmer Hamilton, played by Martin Compston, also finds himself relegated to a supporting role. Fulmer’s fiery personality and quick wit are still present, but his character lacks the same level of agency and development as in Season 1.
The new characters, such as Cameron and Askler, add some intrigue to the narrative, but their motivations and backstories are not fully explored. The series also introduces Coake, played by Mark Addy, a Pictor executive who serves as a formidable antagonist. Addy’s performance is a standout, as he portrays Coake’s ruthlessness and ambition with chilling conviction.
While Season 2 starts strong, the narrative gradually loses its focus, becoming bogged down in overly technical explanations and convoluted plot twists. The series attempts to juggle multiple storylines, including the mystery of the Ancestor, the corporate machinations of Pictor, and the personal struggles of the crew members. However, these storylines often feel disjointed and underdeveloped.
The final episodes of the season descend into a chaotic series of events that strain credibility. The characters make impulsive decisions that defy logic, and the plot twists feel contrived and unsatisfying. The series attempts to tie up loose ends in a hasty and unconvincing manner, leaving viewers with more questions than answers.
Season 2 of “The Rig” had the potential to be a gripping and thought-provoking exploration of environmental themes and corporate greed. However, the series ultimately falters in its narrative execution, becoming bogged down in overly technical explanations and convoluted plot twists.
While the series boasts impressive visuals and a talented cast, it fails to capitalize on its promising premise. The characters, while well-acted, lack the depth and development of the previous season. The plot becomes increasingly convoluted and nonsensical, leading to a disappointing and unsatisfying conclusion.
