In an era where many streaming shows feel bloated and overlong, Netflix's political drama "The Diplomat" stands out as a series that could actually benefit from more episodes, not fewer. The show's second season, which recently debuted on the platform, packs an impressive amount of plot and character development into just six episodes. However, this brevity comes at a cost, leaving viewers wanting more.
"The Diplomat" stars Keri Russell as Kate Wyler, a seasoned State Department official who becomes the U.S. Ambassador to the United Kingdom. The series deftly blends political intrigue, romantic comedy, and spy thriller elements, creating a unique and engaging viewing experience. Russell's performance is a standout, effortlessly navigating the show's tonal shifts with charm and versatility.
While the second season maintains the high quality of its predecessor, the reduction from eight episodes to six leaves the narrative feeling rushed at times. Major plot points and character arcs that would benefit from more exploration are sometimes resolved too quickly, robbing them of their full dramatic potential.
One example is the resolution of the first season's cliffhanger, which feels somewhat anticlimactic due to the limited time devoted to its aftermath. Similarly, the introduction of Allison Janney as Grace Penn, a potential rival for Kate, is a highlight of the season. However, the rapid developments in their relationship and the shocking revelations about Penn's character feel compressed, leaving viewers with narrative whiplash.
The show's creator, Debora Cahn, demonstrates a masterful ability to balance multiple genres and storylines. Her experience with both episodic network dramas and serialized cable shows is evident in the series' structure, which combines overarching narratives with satisfying episode-specific conflicts. However, the shortened season length constrains this storytelling approach, forcing some plot elements to unfold at a breakneck pace.
Despite these constraints, "The Diplomat" remains highly entertaining, thanks to its stellar cast, sharp dialogue, and inventive plotting. The show's ability to juggle complex political machinations with personal drama and moments of levity is impressive. Yet, one can't help but imagine how much richer the experience could be with a few more episodes to let the stories breathe.
The good news for fans is that the next season is set to return to an eight-episode format. While this is a step in the right direction, an even longer run of 10 to 13 episodes could elevate "The Diplomat" from a very good show to a truly great one.
In a streaming landscape where many series struggle to justify their length, "The Diplomat" stands out as a rare gem that leaves its audience craving more. It's a testament to the strength of the show's concept and execution that even in its condensed form, it remains one of the most engaging political dramas on television. As we await the next season, one can only hope that Netflix recognizes the potential for growth and gives "The Diplomat" the expanded canvas it deserves.