Bojack Season 2 Ruminations

Bojack season 2 is defined by its themes of change, growth, and attempts to be better albeit about the titular protagonist Bojack or about the show with its quality and its sophomore season being a huge leap of quality over its first year.

The sophomore season of Bojack does a better balance with its tone of whimsical madness and its underlying seriousness or depths about its characters some being anthropomorphic animals but it's grounded in reality by its subject matter and character-driven drama. Its themes on the meaninglessness of fame and recognition are the focus of this season with sharp commentary by Bob Waksberg and co on Hollywood and media culture.

Amy Sedaris, as Princess Carolyn came to her own this season with Princess Carolyn, was the MVP of this show throughout its run with her on-and-off relationship with Bojack and her self-destructive tendencies showing her as a flawed human being striving to be better. The whimsical adventures of Todd (Aaron Paul) and Mr. Peanutbutter ( Paul F. Thompkins) and fun and filled with clever cutaway gags and enjoyable stories which string with belly laughs. It's a nice contrast to Mr. Peanutbutter and Diane's marriage straddling rocky waters.

Lisa Kudrow as Wanda is a highlight for this season being a contrast to Bojack's deep-rooted cynicism with her naivety leading to humorous situations and character development for Bojack and her. Her naivety makes her easier for the viewer to root for her and elevate the serious material by a notch.

My fav episodes in this show are Escape From LA, Hank After Dark, and The Shot. Each of these episodes deals with Bojack's worst attributes and how it affects him and his close friends throughout. Escape From LA depicts Bojack in a negative light being a sexual predator. Hank After Dark deals with his toxic romantic relationship with Mr. Peanutbutter in a comic manner. The shot is a beautiful juxtaposition of Bojack's arc throughout this season with The Secretariat and brings a depth of vulnerability.