- Network: Netflix
- Series Premiere Date: Apr 20, 2023
Critic Reviews
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Janney is this series’ saving grace, because until her arrival things are too gloomy. There is also too much of a focus on the romantic relationship between Stuart and Eidra, the deputy chief of mission and the CIA station chief, because only devotees of the show will give a fig about them. And stick around for the final scene, which sets us up for series three. It’s a corker.
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In its second season, The Diplomat continues to actually be a slightly mindless thriller, with a plot that's twisty but, ultimately, easy to follow. It feels as though it was designed so you can leave the room, get a cup of tea, come back, and still be able to catch up with where everyone is at fairly quickly.
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In Season 2, “The Diplomat” feels like the same show, but a lesser version made by different people. Too much is flatfooted, from the performances to the phony-sounding exhortations about what it really takes to preserve democracy. What a letdown.
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Janney brings such an interesting energy to the series, and Grace’s interactions with Kate elevate the series entirely, as neither woman behaves how you would expect under the circumstances. Unfortunately, as exciting as it is to watch, there are two major issues. First, as I have already said (but it cannot be overstated), there just isn’t enough time to explore the characters, their dynamics, or this story. Second, and more importantly, the series can’t seem to decide what it wants to be.
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