In the thrilling conclusion of Season 2 Part 1 of "Wednesday", our favorite character, Wednesday Addams, portrayed by Jenna Ortega, faces a series of shocking revelations. With the assistance of Uncle Fester (Fred Armisen), Grandmama Hester Frump (Joanna Lumley), and her new protégé, Agnes (Evie Templeton), Wednesday uncovers the hidden agenda behind L.O.I.S. — the Long-term Outcast Integration Study. This clandestine operation is being conducted at the Willow Hill Psychiatric Hospital, led by the nefarious Judi Stonehurst (Heather Matarazzo), who is not just the head doctor's assistant but also a murderous avian.
Judi, born a normie, continues her father Augustus Stonehurst's (Philip Philmar) work to extract outcasts' abilities and transfer them to others. As the plot unfolds, we learn that Sheriff Galpin was investigating L.O.I.S. to protect his son, Tyler (Hunter Doohan), the hyde imprisoned for a series of murders that occurred in Season 1. The finale escalates as Fester unleashes his electric powers, freeing all L.O.I.S. subjects, leading to chaos at Willow Hill. Amidst the turmoil, Tyler confronts fellow inmate Marilyn Thornhill, also known as Laurel Gates (Christina Ricci), ultimately leading to her demise.
The creators of "Wednesday", Alfred Gough and Miles Millar, delve into the complex family relationships that anchor the series. In an interview with Variety, they discuss how the show explores the dynamics between outcasts and normies, especially in light of the events from the first season. Gough emphasizes that Season 1 focused on how outcasts fit into a normie world, while Season 2 challenges that notion, highlighting the exploitation of outcasts by institutions like Willow Hill.
Millar adds that the inclusion of Tyler's character and the mental asylum setting adds a unique layer of complexity to the storyline. He notes that the Wednesday-Tyler relationship is pivotal, allowing for rich character development and exploration of themes such as rehabilitation and familial ties.
As the narrative unfolds, the show shines a light on the generational conflict within families. Gough explains that the characters of Judi and Augustus Stonehurst emerge from a place of curiosity about the underground rumors surrounding Willow Hill. The writers cleverly connect these characters to the lore of the Addams family, reinforcing the idea that all paths lead back to Nevermore Academy.
The portrayal of Willow Hill as both a kooky and brutal space pushes the boundaries of the Addams universe, allowing for an exploration of rehabilitation versus punishment. Gough and Millar emphasize that the theme of family relationships is central to the show, portraying the Addams family as loving yet unconventional, juxtaposed with the Galpins, who embody secrecy and resentment.
This season, Wednesday grapples with her identity and the consequences of exploiting her own powers. Millar points out that Wednesday's psychic block serves as a narrative device that complicates her journey, forcing her to confront her recklessness. The tension between her powers and her relationship with her ancestor, Goody Addams, echoes throughout the season, culminating in a dramatic confrontation with her mother, Morticia.
As the dust settles on the chaos unleashed at the end of Part 1, Gough teases the audience about what to expect in Part 2. With the characters facing the aftermath of their actions, Wednesday must navigate the consequences of her hubris and the chaos she has released. Millar hints at the exploration of Tyler's life outside the asylum, raising questions about his potential for rehabilitation and the type of life he can return to.
As the creators reflect on the success of "Wednesday", they acknowledge its universal appeal. Both Gough and Millar believe that the show's exploration of outsider themes resonates deeply with audiences of all ages, making Wednesday a symbol of strength and individuality. The insights gained from their previous work on "Smallville" inform their approach to character development and family dynamics, allowing them to craft a unique narrative within the Addams universe.
With a two-part structure, stunning visuals, and a focus on character relationships, "Wednesday" continues to captivate viewers. As we anticipate the next installment, the show's ability to explore complex themes of identity, family, and societal expectations remains at the forefront, ensuring its place as one of Netflix's standout series.
