Necrotongue

The pace slowed down a bit. Ray’s work took a backseat, and the story focused more on family and relationship issues, which made it less exciting. 4*-

The pilot episode was a hit. I loved the concept — Ray Donovan essentially does the same job as Mr. Wolf in Pulp Fiction, which means I’m bound to enjoy this series. The first episode didn’t just focus on Ray’s work; it also gave us a glimpse into his complicated personal life.

Season 2 of Occupied wasn’t disappointing. On the contrary, I was pleased because I was expecting a drop in quality compared to the first season. Actually, I think that the Norwegian filmmakers did an even better job in the second season. Once again, I liked all the political machinations and I enjoyed how the creators managed to draw a thin line between responsibility and betrayal, a fair fight and crime. Well done.

Season 1 of Occupied was quite well made. It’s true that there were some weaker moments here and there. If the story was set in Japan, I suppose the Prime Minister's bodyguards would perform a ritual seppuku. Anyway, I did enjoy the first season. I certainly wasn't bored, and, as is customary for me, I instantly took a liking to the cynical Ambassador Sidorova with her poker face and occasional condescending smile.

The finale wasn’t bad at all, but I know the creators can do better. I felt like they had the story under control the whole time, but it got a bit out of hand at the very end. It could have been better, but it could have been a lot worse too. So, a somewhat hesitant 4 stars.

The hacking was the weakest part of the episode. If it were that easy, Earth would’ve been a nuclear wasteland by now. Why stick to conventional missiles, right? Still, episode seven did a solid job setting the stage for the finale.

I was initially going to rate this episode with four stars, but I had to add a fifth for the uncompromising Finn. Pierre Anselme was also entertaining — exactly how I imagine a typical Euro Commissioner.

This episode felt like a game of chess. Every political move was met with a countermove. The investigation led by the FSP was truly captivating. It was fascinating to see how difficult it is to confess to a murder in Norway, no matter how much you want to.

Last episode, I was wondering where Jesper Berg had disappeared to, and now it’s clear. He’s been sneaking along the Norwegian coast, swam across the Kattegat, and emerged on the Polish shore with a jubilant "I’m so happy!" This was a fantastic episode, and I learned two important lessons: when making deals with Russia, don’t rely on the Ukrainians, and if you plan to threaten someone, don’t stand in front of an open window.

The writers didn’t miss a beat, packing the episode with plenty of events, tension, and action. The story moved at a great pace again, keeping me thoroughly entertained.