New Season of “Severance” Review: All Work and No Play

The sci-fi series “Severance” serves as a sharp metaphor for the woes of the modern office worker. Most employees at Lumon, a mysterious biotech company, undergo a procedure that splits their work selves from their home selves. This leads to a bizarre disconnect where no one knows what anyone else does all day. The show, which premiered in 2022 on Apple TV+, quickly gained popularity for its offbeat take on office life.

Lead character Mark Scout, known as “Mark S.” at Lumon, navigates the unsettling environment with his colleagues on the severed floor. The show explores the eerie, cult-like culture at Lumon, where employees are devoted to the company’s founder, Kier Eagan. Despite the atmospheric setting and high-concept premise, some viewers, like myself, found the first season slow and lacking in depth.

Season 2 of “Severance” takes a more cinematic approach, with each episode reportedly costing a hefty sum. The show’s visual style becomes more ambitious, delving into surreal and Lynchian territory. However, while the scope of the series expands, some characters feel more like stereotypes than fully developed individuals.

One standout storyline in Season 2 follows Dylan, a character who struggles with work and family responsibilities. His arc is relatable and adds a human touch to the show. Despite its intriguing premise and visual flair, “Severance” falls short in delivering satisfying character development and emotional depth.

Overall, while “Severance” offers a unique take on office life and identity, its second season struggles to balance cinematic grandeur with meaningful character arcs. As the show explores ethical dilemmas and workplace dynamics, it occasionally loses sight of the human story at its core.