‘Hijack’ Season 2 Review: Apple TV Thriller Drags

Apple TV’s hit show “Hijack” returned for its highly anticipated second season, and fans were eager to see what new twists and turns awaited them. The first season, which followed Idris Elba’s character Sam Nelson as he navigated a hijacked plane, was a gripping thriller that kept viewers on the edge of their seats. However, the second season takes a different approach, shifting the focus to a new hostage situation on a U-Bahn train in Berlin.

The season opens with Sam, who now appears weary and troubled, boarding a crowded U5 train in Berlin. His unusual behavior immediately sets the tone for the season, as viewers are left wondering what has changed in the two years since the Kingdom Airlines incident. As the narrative unfolds, we are introduced to a cast of new characters, including Sam’s ex-wife Marsha, a new employee at the U-Bahn command center named Clara, and a woman named Olivia awaiting Sam at the British Embassy in Berlin.

The tension escalates when Sam unexpectedly hijacks the train, throwing the passengers into a state of panic and confusion. As the passengers grapple with the reality of their situation, the show delves into the varied human responses to crisis, from fear and uncertainty to resilience and courage. The interplay between Sam and the passengers drives much of the intrigue in the season, as their fates become increasingly intertwined.

While the show explores compelling themes such as global surveillance, revenge, and grief, some critics have noted that the season struggles to maintain the same level of intensity and suspense as its predecessor. The storyline, which weaves between past and present events, can feel disjointed and overwhelming at times. Additionally, the introduction of new characters like Berlin Chief of Police Ava Winter and MI5 Agent Peter Fabar can detract from the central narrative, leading to a somewhat lackluster climax.

Despite these criticisms, the show’s stellar cast delivers standout performances, with Elba once again commanding the screen as the enigmatic Sam. The season’s themes and character dynamics add depth to the story, offering viewers a nuanced exploration of the human experience in the face of crisis. However, for some fans, the season may fall short of the high expectations set by its predecessor.

“Hijack” Season 2 premiered on Apple TV on Jan. 14, with new episodes releasing weekly on Wednesdays. Whether the show will recapture the magic of its first season remains to be seen, but one thing is certain – Sam’s journey is far from over.