The controversial Netflix series inspired by Jay Asher’s 2007 YA novel returns for a second season of traumas and tragedies at Liberty High, which was rocked in the first season by the suicide of student Hannah Baker (Katherine Langford) and the investigation by classmate Clay Jensen (Dylan Minnette) into accusations about her tormentors that she left behind on audiocassettes. The sophomore season is structured around a negligence suit that Hannah’s parents have brought against the school for not addressing the violence she suffered—not only bullying but also rape—at the hands of a clique of privileged campus jocks. That narrative thread is combined with another involving Polaroids rather than tapes, which disclose that the sexual violence was not limited to Hannah—compelling Clay, who is being haunted by Hannah’s ghost, to resume his investigations. One subplot revolves around a student recovering from his own suicide attempt, while another deals with the mistreatment of a teen who testifies against the perpetrators. 13 Reasons Why may be completely sincere in trying to grapple with issues that confront today’s teens, but it also stuffs so many crises into the storyline that it becomes rather crudely melodramatic (as well as increasingly cynical). Still, one has to appreciate the commitment of the strong young cast. Compiling all 13 episodes from 2018, this is a strong optional purchase. (F. Swietek)
13 Reasons Why: Season 2
Paramount, 4 discs, 747 min., not rated, DVD: $39.99 Volume 34, Issue 4
13 Reasons Why: Season 2
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