And so the highly anticipated sequel into the lives of everyone’s favorite '90s San Franciscans has been with us for a little over a week now. And if you’re anything like me, you went through it in a weekend. This week, after being released and devoured in only a measly few days, it was announced that season two will be coming our way, despite mixed reviews. I’ll admit that I myself had pretty serious doubts, though not initially. I’ll begin by getting my own review out of the way. Also, my favorite of all disclaimers: SPOILERS AHEAD!
Like any respectable child of the '90s, I was beyond thrilled at the first announcement of the series, and practically in stitches in the weeks leading up to the release, after what felt like years of anticipation. Then I watched the first two episodes. Obviously, the first was a whirlwind of nostalgia and, for the most part, I really admired and agreed with where everyone ended up — seriously, the whole Kimmy/Fernando storyline is pure gold. But then, episode two rolled around and I turned it off and flipped on Nick at Nite to revel in the glory of what once was, because frankly, this was really bringing me down- there’s a string of tweets, that I later retracted, to prove it. I’m pretty easily entertained, and I love the OG series more than most things — it’s rare I turn on an episode I’ve never seen — and I was downright disappointed.
I had read a few of the more scathing reviews, and I was pretty shocked- though having worked as a reviewer, I’m well aware I don’t always agree with them. So, I tucked the reboot away for the day and picked it back up at the end of the weekend. Then, I left it on while I got some work done, proceeding to get distracted, because it did, in fact, get better.
There were some surprising edge and, honestly, borderline shocking jokes, and, overall, a nice feel that wasn’t afraid to poke fun at itself when it counted. Some of the updates were undoubtedly cringe-worthy, i.e.: Becky, who is in her 50s, going (the horrid term) baby crazy (WTF?), the disgusting rendition of the theme song (I really hope for the new season they use a different artist or artists throughout), the girls’ night out episode; and it took a few episodes to warm up to the kids, particularly Kimmy’s daughter Ramona, who just didn’t seem to fit. But midway through, I started to feel okay. The ghosts of the original show and close-knit family that finally moved on eventually faded, for the most part, and it helped that they were still around. Now, my only grievance is anyone who is honestly rooting against Steve in the battle for DJ’s affection — how can you call yourself a true fan?! HE WAS THE VOICE OF ALADDIN!!!! Oh, and the ridiculously uncomfortable and overblown/drawn out side-eye at the mention of Michelle. That was easily both the most unnecessary and uncomfortable bit of television in the last ten years. Yikes.
Anyway, what’s next? It is pretty unclear who DJ will chose when it comes to boyfriend material. I am always and forever #TeamSteve (and you better be, too), but DJ will be, as she already has been, working alongside bachelor #2 in the undeniably foine AF Matt (but he’s not Steve, so bye). She says she’ll just be focusing on her right now, which is understandable and reasonable given her titular Full House, but it’s not like the admirers in question are going anywhere. Also, hello, storyline! She’s essentially the main character, so these handsome boys aren’t going anywhere.
Though we left it on kind of a “Mamma Mia” note with Kimmy and Fernando, their relationship made things pretty interesting towards the end of the season, not to mention made Ramona more likable and have more of a purpose. On that note- is anyone else getting a vibe between her and Jackson? Because they live in the same house, and that’s gonna cause some drama in the future. So we’ll see about that. Anyway, back to Kernando, I like them a lot — Fernando really grew on me the more exposure we got to him, becoming more of an asset than a hyperbole of sexy Latin lover. However, my plan was they get re-married and move into Kimmy’s old house next door- it really just makes more sense.
As for Steph, she’s the fun aunt that can be a bit of a loose canon and brings in the young aspect of the show. Anything can happen there. On that, they really did cover their bases as far as viewer appeal: the young hip Coachella going aunt, the moms, the kids at different ages and of both genders. The little technicalities are pretty impressive, despite the sloppier areas. Again, overall, I’m definitely going to watch it several more times before the new season.
So, was it everything I was hoping for? Mostly. And more? Not yet. But I’m optimistic and I did feel genuinely upset when I came to the end. I see a lot of room to grow and improve, and I’m actually really looking forward to what’s to come. It’s starting to find its niche, and I’m really excited about that. Here’s to the return of more familiar faces, too! More please, thank you.
