Season 2 of “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” is now streaming on Disney+, with new episodes released every Wednesday. The latest episodes, “I Play Dodgeball With Cannibals” and “Demon Pigeons Attack,” highlight the noticeable growth of the young cast over the past two years. Walker Scobell, Leah Sava Jeffries, and Aryan Simhadri not only appear taller but have also enhanced their acting skills and presence, allowing the show to evolve from its whimsical first season into a darker, more complex narrative.
The series continues to follow Percy, a demigod whose mother is human and father is Poseidon. Joined by his friends Annabeth and Grover, they tackle both mythical challenges—like creatures and quests—and real-life issues of adolescence. Camp Half-Blood remains their base, a sanctuary for children of Greek gods such as Zeus and Ares.
While Season 1 adapted Rick Riordan’s “The Lightning Thief,” the current season draws from “The Sea of Monsters.” Percy and his friends embark on a quest to the Bermuda Triangle to find a golden fleece that will save their camp from imminent peril. The performances, particularly Scobell’s portrayal of Percy with his blend of determination and vulnerability, are commendable. Jeffries embodies Annabeth with loyalty and strength, while Simhadri’s Grover brings an infectious enthusiasm, even when he’s captured by Polyphemus.
The season introduces exciting new characters, including Timothy Simons as Tantalus, and Daniel Diemer who plays Tyson, Percy’s cyclops half-brother. Additionally, cameos from Sandra Bernhard, Kristen Schaal, and Margaret Cho as The Grey Sisters add humor, while Lin-Manuel Miranda and Jason Mantzoukas reprise their roles as Hermes and Dionysus respectively, enhancing the ensemble cast.
The production values have significantly improved in this season, with thrilling action sequences and impressive visual effects. A standout moment is the chariot race in episode two, which features dynamic set pieces and age-appropriate excitement. While the series may not attain high art status and occasionally falters with its pacing and exposition-heavy storytelling, it has decidedly found its stride as a television adaptation, perhaps the ideal format for Riordan’s narratives.
Overall, “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” offers a rich world of mythology, engaging both younger viewers and adults alike. The blend of education and entertainment makes it a delightful option for family viewing, ensuring that audiences can enjoy a fun yet meaningful experience together.