"The Duttons face a new set of challenges in the early 20th century, including the rise of Western expansion, Prohibition, and the Great Depression."

OUR REVIEW:

The season two premiere of 1923 feels more like a continuation of season one rather than the launch of a new chapter. Given that season one ended with only eight episodes, this episode comes across as what should have been episode nine rather than a fresh start. The show still has multiple storylines that have yet to intersect, and the pacing remains methodical, keeping certain narratives in a holding pattern.

One of the biggest pacing issues comes from Teonna Rainwater’s storyline, which, while important thematically, feels like it slows the episode down. The series as a whole seems to be in a temporary stall, waiting for major events to unfold rather than actively pushing them forward. The Duttons remain stuck between a rock and a hard place, unable to truly advance their plans until Spencer returns. However, Spencer’s journey itself lacks urgency in this episode, as he’s simply working his way back to America with only minor developments along the way. Being separated from his wife has taken away some of the momentum from his arc, making this portion of the episode feel like a placeholder rather than a compelling advancement of his story.

As a season premiere, this episode doesn’t quite deliver the sense of a new beginning, mainly because so little time has passed within the story since the end of season one. Instead, it continues to shift pieces into place, slowly building toward the inevitable confrontations ahead. While 1923 has always been deliberate in its pacing, this episode feels like it’s still revving up rather than hitting the ground running. It’s fine for what it is, but it lacks the punch expected from a season opener.

That said, 1923 still looks as stunning as ever. The sweeping landscapes, rich cinematography, and attention to period detail make every frame feel cinematic. The acting remains top-tier, with the cast continuing to deliver strong performances. Harrison Ford and Helen Mirren bring their usual gravitas, and the supporting cast is just as committed, even when the material is taking its time to build momentum. No matter the pacing issues, the show’s production values and performances ensure that it remains engaging to watch.