Shannon Miller

This final chapter isn't without flaws, but it still delivers the suspense and cinematic polish that made Squid Game a hit in the first place.

Without strong comedic chops, the plots mostly devolve into confusing, sometimes frustrating moments that appear contrived for shock. The season’s third episode, however, points to a clever comedy itching to rise to the surface.

Thanks to fellow standouts Amanda Peet and Olivia Munn, a somewhat formulaic look at the lives of the wealthy still has moments rife with chemistry and the feeling of something more interesting bubbling beneath the surface. And though it promises some thrilling heists and sizzling secrets, this pricey drama comes up short.

Squid Game finds its second wind by exploring the complex layers of a deadly system. Storytelling continues to be the series’ strongest asset, and a leaner season helps to focus energy on a more nuanced approach to this expanding fictional universe. Season 2’s framework is a natural breeding ground for new characters and deeper backstories with Gong Yoo, Kang Ae-shim, Park Sung-hoon, and Choi Seung-hyun joining Lee Jung-jae and Lee Byung-hun as cast standouts. Most importantly, these seven episodes continue to be a cleverly gripping reflection of the world around us – one with plenty left to say.

Ultimately, Claws works best (and is most engaging) when it sticks closely to the five women that defined this show’s appeal from the beginning.

What is notably missing is an account from Jackson herself. ... While some moments offer enlightening context, Malfunction still leaves the viewer with shards of a story that only the artist can reasonably glue together. It ends up serving as more of a platform for Timberlake’s potential redemption (yes, even with the inclusion of some apt criticism), which feels like an especially egregious outcome that raises questions about who this documentary is for.

Viewers will have plenty of laughs and great performances to hold dear, but in the end, dedicated fans may have a hard time shaking the feeling that everyone involved deserved way better than what they got.

The creatives behind the show’s visuals are standouts until the show’s final bow. But aside from a few watchable moments, DWP ends on a note that isn’t quite sour, but is held for far too long.

Overall, it’s difficult to pinpoint Schmigadoon!’s intentions. It doesn’t offer a new narrative like Crazy Ex-Girlfriend or impressively catchy tracks like Netflix’s Julie And The Phantoms. It doesn’t tap into the real potential of its seasoned cast like 30 Rock or Portlandia, nor does it have anything new to say for or against musicals, in general. But if you’re looking for something breezy in which to escape the world’s heaviness for a song or two, Schmigadoon! is a watchable enough option.

HSM: TM: TS’s capable young cast and quick wit remain the show’s greatest strengths. As long as this sharp series continues to establish an identity separate from its source material, it should remain top of its class for seasons to come.