After 15 episodes of Arcane, viewers likely understand that Netflix and Riot Games have captured lightning in a bottle. Episodes 4-6 (Act 2) of Season 2 deliver what Arcane fans have come to expect: incredible production, apt social commentary, rich story, and remarkable characters. Beware of spoilers ahead!

‘Paint the Town Blue’ 

It’s a little-known fact that the French production company Fortiche was charged with the animation for the series. Before the idea for the show came about, Fortiche animated promotional music videos for the League of Legends video game, which Arcane is based on. After Fortiche’s talent was seen in several music videos, Netflix would partner with Riot Games to oversee Arcane’s creation. Although the show has never shied away from incorporating music to supplement scenes that lack dialogue, Season 2 appears to pay special homage to the series’ roots. “Paint the Town Blue” opens with a song of the same name, performed by Ashnikko. The montage shown during the song references the fighting that’s taken place in Zaun as Jinx has unwittingly amassed a cult following.

Arcane’s production team is very keen on details, as evidenced by each episode’s final product. Even something as simple as a song choice goes a long way, as fans have already dubbed Ashnikko a perfect fit to perform a song about Jinx. Masterful TV shows don’t happen by accident. They are finely crafted with care and consideration, which explains the three-year gap between Seasons 1 and 2. Aside from the expected achievements in production, the episode also passes the Bechdel test. Although somewhat common in Arcane, the Bechdel test looks for two named female characters to exchange dialogue about something other than a man. This feat isn’t particularly challenging for a show that’s done well to create and explore some of the most beloved and complex female characters in the history of television. As Caitlyn continues to struggle with her path, she asks, “Why is peace always the justification for violence?”       

‘Blisters and Bedrock’

Netflix’s decision to release Season 2 in three separate acts may have had logistical advantages but the strategy has also lent itself to the show’s storytelling. While Act 1 ended with several cliffhangers that left some main characters in limbo, Act 2 picks up each subplot at an expert pace. In yet another satisfying montage viewers are shown how Vi has been occupying her time and coping with her misfortunes. Without a mention in the previous episode, it was a much-needed check-in with one of the show’s leads. Often overshadowed is Hailee Steinfeld’s voice acting. Steinfeld’s acting experience dates back to 2007, with the beginning of her career being dominated by live-action performances. In 2018, she was given an opportunity to show another layer of her talent when she was cast in the animated film, Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. Steinfeld demonstrated her impressive ability as a voice actor by voicing the role of Gwen Stacy.