The season finale revealed a surprisingly complex love triangle. Mark Scout’s “innie,” Mark S., saw a wedding photo of his “outie,” revealing his bride to be his seemingly deceased colleague, Ms. Casey (Gemma). Mark S.’s discovery that Gemma is alive, after believing she died in a car accident causing his severance, is a shocking twist. This creates a situation where both the “innie” and “outie” Mark are deeply in love with different, living women.
Meanwhile, Mark S. is romantically involved with his coworker, Helly R. However, Helly R.’s exploration of her “outie’s” life reveals a startling connection: her “outie” is Helena Eagan, the daughter of Lumon’s CEO. While this setup might suggest a melodramatic storyline, Severance remains a thoughtful exploration of identity, mortality, and, particularly, love. Season 2, premiering January 17th on Apple TV+, delves further into this.
Following the events of the previous season, where Mark S., Helly R., and Dylan escaped Lumon, Dylan’s discovery of remote consciousness shifting led to them awakening their “outies.” They attempted to reveal the realities of their “innie” experiences. Mark spoke with his sister, Helly confronted Lumon executives, and Irving confronted his partner, Burt, leading to another complicated romantic entanglement.
This new season, beginning five months after the “Microdat Uprising,” raises profound questions about relationships between “innies” and “outies.” Does an “innie’s” romantic involvement constitute infidelity? Does an “outie” have the right to control their “innie’s” relationships? Do the “innies,” confined to their work environment, deserve love more than their “outies”? Dylan’s situation adds another layer, complicating his “outie’s” family dynamics.
These explorations of love in a bifurcated existence are interwoven with the show’s complex relationship with death. Mark’s attempt to cope with grief through severance created a new self, capable of love without past heartbreak. The “innies’” perceived deaths within Lumon are mourned, mirroring the finality of their severance. The season highlights the paradoxical nature of their existence: their creation was unethical, yet their destruction would be an act of violence.
This review focuses more on the themes than specific plot points due to Apple’s restrictions on spoilers. However, the new season retains the first season’s intricate plot twists, stylish visuals, and strong performances. While Lumon’s methods may sometimes seem incongruous with its stated goals, the show’s enduring strength lies in the powerful resonance of its themes. The season finale is a compelling conclusion, leaving audiences eagerly anticipating what’s next.
Ultimately, Severance stands out in a landscape of technically proficient yet conceptually shallow shows. Its enduring relevance and timelessness are what make it truly excellent.