The script puts a greater effort into less inhibitions than the second season, as Anik and Danner and Zoe and Grace run their own frenzied investigations and generate more equal momentum. The sequel, which replaces Miller in Season 1 with the likes of Anu Valia, Eric Appel, and Peter Atencio as directors, is a bit quicker and has more twists than its predecessor. But in a simple game of who’s funnier, Season 1 had plenty of laugh-out-loud moments that made you want to shout, “How awesome is this party?!”
Having family secrets adds more interesting backstory than last season, complicating the possible motives for Edgar’s death. Structurally, however, it’s all too stretched or extravagant for the exciting juggling act that accompanies the ensemble’s whodunnit. It’s not “Monopoly” but “clues”. During a 35-minute character study, “Afterparty” tends to spend a lot of time on details that simply seem, or really are, irrelevant. Yes, we get to see Cho dance all the way through, deadpan Konkur like their best, and get a taste of Walter Hauser’s love-filled “Richard Jewell” flip inside out. Still, the show’s collective charisma and self-amusement can only yield so much intrigue in lieu of some delayed serious announcements.
But it’s still fun enough when you think of it as a total post-party binge. “After Party” separates itself from the hard work (costume styles and intersecting stories!) that is meant to be seen as a light comedy. Much like the Apple TV+ musical series Shmigadoon! It’s a good, cozy quality. “Afterparty” is also holding the show, and the spotlight on each of the quirky suspects is a moment of inspiration for the series’ snarky, chameleon-like storytellers.
Nine episodes of Season 2 were screened for review. His first three episodes of “The Afterparty” will premiere on Apple TV+ on July 12.
