Loosely based on the same-titled novel by Stephen King centering on a small town that suddenly finds itself isolated under a huge inverted glass bowl, Under the Dome was an unexpected hit for CBS in 2013. In the second season, Chester's Mill, ME, becomes a full-on crazy place as the dome variously morphs into a deadly magnet, howls and moans, spins on its axis, sparks a deep freeze, and generally acts like a petulant child trying to control its stupefied inhabitants. Barbie (Mike Vogel) has escaped murder charges and the hangman, but he's still in the sights of the increasingly dangerous lunatic-in-chief, Big Jim (Dean Norris). The plot makes some progress here, with more light being shed on the mystical source of the bubble's power, which is now also under investigation by external agents. Indeed, it turns out that escape from the dome is possible; unfortunately, life outside is no less dangerous. The series of plagues befalling the populace, along with the bizarre behaviors that drive their preposterous narratives, are more amusing than credible, but this seems to work for a demented show that already has achieved minor cult status. Compiling all 13 episodes from the 2014 second season, extras include behind-the-scenes featurettes, deleted scenes, and a gag reel. Recommended. (T. Fry)
Under the Dome: Season 2
Paramount, 4 discs, 541 min., not rated, DVD: $59.99, Blu-ray: $74.99 March 23, 2015
Under the Dome: Season 2
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