“Percy Jackson and the Olympians” is a new series adaptation on Disney+ based on the books, Percy Jackson, by Rick Riordan.
The first season proved to be very successful and won eight Emmy awards. The second season is packed with just as much action and drama as the first, and is definitely worth the watch. It may have some differences from both the books and the show, but those changes have worked out for the better throughout the season. I rate “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” season two 4/5 stars.
As a kid with ADHD, dyslexia, and a knack for trouble, Percy Jackson (played by Walker Scobel) struggles through middle school. Soon after being expelled, he discovers a hidden truth that might be the hidden piece to why he has never been able to fit in. Plot twist, he’s the son of Poseidon (played by Toby Stephans), a Greek god. The first season follows him through his journey as a demigod, and his mission to return the lightning bolt that was stolen from Zeus (currently played by Courtney Vance) back to Olympus, the home of the Greek gods. With the help of his friends, Grover (played by Aryan Simhadri) and Annabeth (played by Leah Jeffries) he works to save his new home. The second season takes place almost immediately after with new threats of monsters and the looming threat of demigod traitors.
The book series was written by Rick Riordan, and he continues to have involvement even in the making of the show. Riordan helped with the majority of casting decisions to help bring more diversity to the cast that the books didn’t have. Main actors in the second season include Walker Scobel, Leah Jeffries, Aryan Simhadri, Charlie Bushnell, and Dior Goodjohn.
Overall, I believe that the casting for season two was immaculate. The main characters are represented well by their actors, and those actors continue to perform their parts amazingly. New actors, like Tamara Smart and Daniel Diemer, also have a profound impact on the show by bringing in exciting new plot lines, and help make it even better than the first season.
Despite how well the show is performing, some viewers have voiced complaints. These are mostly due to the stylistic changes between the show and the book. Differences between plot points like what happened to Thalia Grace, fights, and the addition of an original character that was never featured in the books, Alison Simms, have caused many fans to dislike the show.
I do agree that some of these changes were a surprise, but I also believe that they make the show better. The plot changes bring more depth and background to many of the characters, and help you sympathize with the decisions they make in the future. These stylistic changes were great additions to the show and make it even more enjoyable to watch.
Overall, I think that “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” season two was amazing. The plot was solid and entertaining, the foreshadowing left me wanting more and greatly anticipating the next season, and the cast played their roles amazingly. I give this show 4/5 stars and recommend it to anyone who likes a good fantasy show.