HBO’s critically acclaimed Euphoria left viewers sitting on the edge of their seats with the conclusion of its first season in 2019, myself included. The eight episodes and eventual two bonus specials of the series touched on a variety of modern social hot topics regarding all facets of identity among multiple generations, with a focus on Gen Z. The show blends aspects of fantasy with reality to depict a romanticized illusion of the high school experience particularly as it relates to drugs. This is done through the lens of the protagonist Rue, who serves as the main narrator of the story while she embraces her own conflicting identities and struggles with addiction. The end of season one left audiences with many questions and afforded the writers lots of choices for the future of the show. The first episode of season two, “Trying to Get to Heaven Before They Close the Door,” gives us some insight into what we can expect for the future of Euphoria, which will presumably be released on a weekly basis. If you haven’t seen the show or this particular episode, pause reading this article to watch so that I don’t spoil it for you! For those of you completely up to date with the plot, read ahead to see how this episode might affect the rest of the season.
Some of the most notable developments seen in the first episode of the second season include an explanation for Ashtray and his role in Fez’s life, a shift in Cassie’s relationship status relating to McKay, and the death of Mouse, an event that could potentially result in repercussions for multiple characters. Rue’s complicated relationship with her sobriety as seen in the first season is further built upon in this episode. Additionally, the dynamic between her and Jules seems to be consequently affected and evermore complicated. Some things that seem relatively stagnant between the end of season one and the beginning of season two are Ethan’s attraction to Kat, Nate’s toxicity relating to women, and Lexi’s sympathetic demeanor. All of these characterizations are prevalent in predicting where the writers of Euphoria will go next, and how it will affect Rue’s perception of her reality and sobriety. As far as the future goes, it doesn’t seem like a coincidence that season two begins on New Year’s Eve, a holiday designated for new beginnings and resolution. While Cassie and Rue’s actions throughout each scene may not seem to be in the spirit of reparations, perhaps the writers will surprise us with expanded ethical and moral development as season two progresses. Only one thing seems certain about this season, and it is that we can expect the unexpected. Sam Levinson, the writer and director of the show, seems to be generating a larger focus on the inherent flaws of each character in their journeys as they relate to self-sabotage and the potential of facing the consequences of their own actions, which most teenagers have to face. Where we may have found relatability in the characterization of people like Cassie in season one, we now see a sort of undignified selfishness that translates directly to our perception of her reasoning and ability to justify her actions. The episode ends on a suspenseful note when a fight Fez picks with Nate escalates dramatically, leaving the audience with a cliffhanger. While the second episode will surely unpack some of the effects of such actions and general themes, season two, in its entirety, is more likely to deliver the answers we viewers are all waiting for. I’ll be watching all of the new episodes to see how the rest of the show plays out, as well as how the scenes in “Trying to Get to Heaven Before They Close the Door” contribute to the overall plot. Remember to stay tuned for Sundays on HBO Max!