If you’re a fan of high society drama and historical intrigue, The Gilded Age: The Complete Second Season is a series entry that should be on your radar. This season continues to delve into the opulent world of New York’s elite during the late 19th century, offering a rich tapestry of characters, conflicts, and cultural commentary.
Story
The second season of The Gilded Age picks up where the first left off, with the social dynamics of New York’s upper crust in full swing. The story continues to follow the lives of the wealthy Van Rhijn and Russell families, as well as the ambitious Peggy Scott. Peggy’s journey is particularly compelling this season, as she navigates the complexities of segregation, unity, and social justice, while gaining new ground.
Oscar Van Rhijn, ever the schemer, is back with his dubious plans to marry for all the wrong reasons, adding a layer of intrigue and drama. His mother, Agnes Van Rhijn, remains a formidable presence, upholding the old social order with an iron will, while her sister, Ada Brook, provides a softer, more compassionate counterbalance.
Peggy Scott’s storyline remains a poignant exploration of the Black experience during the Gilded Age, highlighting the resilience and challenges faced by her community. Her interactions with the Van Rhijn, Russell, and her own family provide a rich tapestry of perspectives and conflicts, making her journey one of the most compelling aspects to me.
Visuals
The Gilded Age excels in its use of varied camera angles to enhance the storytelling. The series employs a mix of mid shots, worm’s eye views, and over-the-shoulder angles, creating a visually dynamic experience. These techniques help to immerse viewers in the grandeur and intimacy of the characters’ lives, making scenes feel both grand and personal.
The costumes in The Gilded Age are nothing short of spectacular. The elaborate dresses, while beautiful, make you wonder how comfortable they were to wear. The more modern-looking dresses with lower cut tops almost make you forget the historical setting, along with the scenes at church, where the fashion seems frozen in time and mirror the present. The deliberate blurring at the bottom of some scenes adds a unique touch, though it might not be to everyone’s taste.
A Similar Moment in History
Set against the backdrop of the late 1800s, this time period also reminds me of the Philippine-American War. This time period showcased contributions from the Black American community to Filipinos. Members of the Black American community were highly vocal in arguing for our right to independence from colonization and the interconnectedness is pretty cool.
Audio
The audio quality in Dolby Digital 5.1 truly shines, especially during scenes that capture the hustle and bustle of the city and lavish gatherings. The sound design enhances the immersive experience.
Price
The Gilded Age: The Complete Second Season continues to deliver the high society drama and intricate storytelling that fans love. Priced at $19.95, this season is a worthwhile addition to any collection. The cast’s stellar performances draw you in, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in historical dramas.
Extras:
The DVD set includes a variety of extras that provide deeper insights into the series:
- Behind the Gilded Curtain Featurette
- Character Featurettes - Agnes, Ada, Bertha, George, Marian, and Peggy
- The Black Elite: Then and Now Featurette
- The Real Gilded Age - Carrie, Cynthia, and Morgan
- Choose Your Side - Carrie, Christine, Cynthia, Denee, Morgan, and Julian
Overall, The Gilded Age: The Complete Second Season is a captivating continuation of the series, offering a blend of historical context, character drama, and visual splendor that is sure to delight fans.
Quality 5
Ease Of Use 5
Usefulness 5
Price 5
5 out of 5 Cool Points
