Cynthia Erivo’s Versatile Brilliance Ignites ‘Poker Face’ Season 2
In the highly anticipated second season of Peacock’s captivating dramedy "Poker Face," Cynthia Erivo shines as she effortlessly embodies a captivating cast of estranged sisters grappling over their spiteful late mother’s will. The Emmy-winning star’s ability to transform into distinct characters, ranging from a DJ to a professor, has left her co-star and the show’s creator in awe.
Cynthia Erivo’s Mastery of Multiple Roles
"Wicked" star Cynthia Erivo’s comedic brilliance takes center stage in Season 2 of "Poker Face." Erivo’s portrayal of the sisters, each with their unique quirks and motivations, has drawn praise from Natasha Lyonne, who reprises her role as amateur detective Charlie Cale.
"Every time she’d appear with a new character, it was just so funny," Lyonne exclaimed. "She’s completely dialed in and brilliant. There’s a buoyancy and lightness to her, but also a perfectionism and precision. All the sisters are so clearly delineated, it’s absurd."
Inspired by Classic Screwball Comedies
The premiere episode of "Poker Face" Season 2 takes its inspiration from the audaciousness and pure showmanship of classic screwball comedies like "What’s Up, Doc?" (1972). Writer Laura Deeley sought to capture the wit and over-the-top antics of the genre to create a captivating and entertaining opening to the season.
"It felt like a really strong way to reannounce, ‘The show is back, and we’re going to take some swings,’" said Tony Tost, who takes over as showrunner.
A Unique Blend of Mystery and Comedy
Co-created by Lyonne and Rian Johnson ("Star Wars: The Last Jedi"), "Poker Face" sets itself apart by prioritizing the "how to catch ’em" mystery over the traditional "whodunnit." Audiences are introduced to the killer in the first act of each hourlong episode, leaving Charlie to unravel the truth and apprehend the culprit.
The show draws inspiration from classic network TV crime dramas such as "Murder, She Wrote," "Columbo," and "Magnum P.I.," while Season 2 adds elements from "Quantum Leap" and "Highway to Heaven."
Rian Johnson’s Parallel Journey
While helming "Poker Face" Season 2, Rian Johnson also directed the third installment of his "Knives Out" murder-mystery franchise, "Wake Up Dead Man." The experience, he noted, was akin to performing double sets at the gym.
"It kind of felt like doing double sets at the gym. Even though it’s a different muscle, it’s in the same family," Johnson said.
Charlie Cale’s Evolving Journey
Charlie Cale continues to traverse the country, hopping from town to job, as she pieces together the truth behind various crimes. The second season provides glimpses into her past, but Johnson emphasizes the importance of keeping the character’s backstory minimal.
"What’s fun is finding little ways to learn more about Charlie through how she engages with each of these crimes," Johnson explained.
Season 2’s Existential Exploration
According to Tony Tost, Season 2 of "Poker Face" unfolds like a three-part play. Charlie embarks on an existential road trip, grappling with questions of identity, belonging, and purpose.
"It’s very much that question of, ‘What is my place in the world? What’s it like to put down roots? Is this actually the life I want to lead?’" Tost said.
Natasha Lyonne’s Gritty Lone Wolf
Lyonne describes Charlie as a "grittier lone wolf" in Season 2, having spent considerable time evading ruthless casino mobsters and traveling alone. The experience has left her yearning for human connection.
"It’s a long time to not have any real contact with anyone," Lyonne said.
A Star-Studded Guest List
Like Season 1, the new installments of "Poker Face" feature an impressive roster of guest stars, including Giancarlo Esposito, Haley Joel Osment, Melanie Lynskey, Carol Kane, Justin Theroux, Method Man, Alia Shawkat, Patti Harrison, John Cho, Gaby Hoffmann, Shiloh Fernandez, and Ego Nwodim.
Rian Johnson’s personal favorites include an episode involving Simon Rex and a minor-league baseball team, and another featuring Kumail Nanjiani and an alligator.
Despite the dizzying array of talented performers, Johnson emphasizes the enduring power of empathy as the driving force of "Poker Face."
"That’s what drives the character of Charlie, and what ultimately makes this show work: her central relationship in each episode between the victim, or the killer ― or the alligator."
