In 2021, it was astonishing to see that, out of all game franchises, “League of Legends” came out swinging as a pioneer to the current “great video game adaptation” boom via the Netflix animated series “Arcane.” Showrunners Christian Linke and Alex Yee successfully fleshed out a fluid steampunk world fueled by class themes, magic, and advanced technology, coupled with a captivating, mature narrative about the strained relationship between two sisters at the epicenter of a war.
Additionally, animation studio Fortiche made its explosive mark, boasting a breathtaking painterly animation style and throwing every animation technique at the wall to amplify the tone of its storytelling. For such a high-quality animated series with nine episodes per season and three episodes per act, it only made sense that Arcane’s second season would be a long-awaited one. The crushing blow lay, sadly, with the news that the second season would be its last.
Based on the first two acts, it is an ambitious and triumphant return worth the three-year wait. Season one ended with the emotional fallout between Jinx (a phenomenal voice performance from Ella Purnell) and Vi (Hailee Steinfeld), fueled by the death of the subterranean criminal leader of Zaun and Jinx’s father figure, Silco (Jason Spisak). The second season picks up shortly following the attack that ended the first, resulting in several fatalities.
With the two cities losing their leaders — Piltover’s Councilors and Zaun’s Silco — a power struggle arises, and the shift between Vi and Jinx’s relationships affects those around them. For instance, Vi’s love interest, enforcer Caitlyn Kiramman (Katie Leung), who saw Jinx launch the missile firsthand, is consumed by grief and rage. Vi realizes Powder is gone and joins Caitlyn’s ragtag group of enforcers to bring her down. However, with the increased patrolling in Zaun, the citizens start seeing Jinx as a Katniss Everdeen equivalent, turning her into the poster child for a bubbling revolution. Meanwhile, Jinx strikes a bittersweet bond with Silco’s right hand, Sevika (Amirah Vann), and Isha, an adorable mute child she saves from mobsters and serves as an adoptive big sister.
Although the story focuses on Vi and Jinx’s arcs, they are only pieces on a large chessboard. The season also continues plot threads left hanging from the first season while bringing other significant players to the fray. Jayce (Kevin Alejandro), a scientist councilor, starts to understand how his and Viktor’s (Harry Lloyd) magical technology, “Hextech,” affects the realm of the Arcane. The foreshadowing of Viktor’s addiction to the unstable “Hexcore” he used on his ailing body goes to a new level. And finally, ruthless warlord Ambessa (Ellen Thomas) deceptively attempts to ascend to power in Piltover.
Themes of self-identity and interpersonal relationships continue to be the driving force that keeps “Arcane”‘s storytelling poignant and captivating. Regardless of their ethical beliefs, each character is portrayed with intricate humanistic traits, making their emotionally motivated actions feel genuine. Sometimes, those emotions change the story’s trajectory in unexpected ways that keep you on the edge of your seat. The rematch between Jinx and Vi has been highly anticipated, but once it happens, it’s a turning point that allows a larger, complex story regarding the sisterly dynamic to unfold. It is remarkable how adeptly the writers execute major story beats, utilizing bold juxtapositions between two parallel storylines and a remarkable original soundtrack that amplifies the tone of each episode.
The Fortiche animators are even more precise than in the first season. Understandably, the series’ $250 million price tag makes it a masterful technical spectacle that bursts with breathtaking style, its 3D animated, textured characters conveying deep emotion alongside a cast of real-life actors. The artists combine various techniques and textures, from watercolor to color pencils, which complement the boldness of the show’s vivid storytelling and spectacular action sequences.
Sadly, this season’s finality permeates each episode, yet simultaneously, it appears as though nine episodes were not enough. At times, the plotting of the story feels a bit rushed. In a single episode, several concepts are heavily introduced. Still, the objectives shift 180° to cater to the familial bond between Vi and Jinx while working towards something more resonant. Yet, its dazzling, stylish punk-rock attitude allows the writing to overcome its obstacles.
“Arcane” continues to be the most visually stunning and dense series on television today, demonstrating why animation remains the most daring medium for creatives to convey a potent narrative. One can only hope for more stories from this vast universe.
First two acts of season two of “Arcane” screened for review. Now on Netflix.