The latest episode of Hazbin Hotel’s second season, titled “Hazbin Hotel: Behind Closed Doors,” has unveiled a whirlwind of chaos surrounding the show’s protagonist, Charlie. Eager to demonstrate that redemption is attainable, Charlie’s unwavering positivity shines through, though it often results in her stumbling into precarious situations without considering the fallout.
This installment places Charlie at the center of tension among her friends, particularly after she learns that Sir Pentious has been redeemed and ascended to Heaven. Rather than approach the situation cautiously, Charlie broadens her mission by inviting notorious figures Vox and Velvette to the hotel, against the advice of Vaggie. This reckless decision, made without concrete evidence, leads to Charlie being manipulated by Vox, who uses her enthusiasm to further undermine her credibility.
The episode provides insight into Charlie’s well-intentioned yet flawed character, reminiscent of her past behaviors from the first season, where she hastily attempted to redeem Angel Dust without fully understanding the complexities involved. The comedy arises from her attempts to define the steps to redemption, often inventing them on the fly, and through her misguided efforts to test Angel in a hilariously disastrous scenario.
Supporting characters also receive their moments in the spotlight, enriching the storyline. Husk’s belief in Angel, revelations about Angel’s past sins, and Baxter’s connection to Pentious further develop the cast, but the standout moments involve Cherri Bomb and Pentious. Their duet, “Piss (A Love Song),” humorously explores their tumultuous relationship and hint at Cherri’s reluctant inclination towards redemption.
As the episode unfolds, the stakes heighten for Charlie, personally and professionally. Her fervent desire to validate redemption threatens her friendships while further tarnishing her reputation, setting the stage for more complex developments in the season. The musical numbers resonate with catchy tunes, and the voice performances are commendable, particularly Erika Henningsen’s ability to transition from whimsical to fierce and Christian Borle’s portrayal of Vox’s smug demeanor.
With Charlie facing increased challenges from Vox’s misinformation campaign and the potential alienation of her friends, viewers can anticipate a compelling journey ahead as the second season of Hazbin Hotel continues to evolve.