The second season of “After Forever” launched on Amazon Prime Video on December 31, and it is comprised of eight compelling episodes.
Powerful performances from the entire cast led by Kevin Spirtas give this digital series its beating heart, and when paired with its sorrowful storylines.
Michael Slade proved to be an extraordinary screenwriter, whose screenplay is harking, and melancholic yet resonant; moreover, his writing fulfills the dramatic ensemble cardinal rule, where Everybody in the cast brings something unique to the table and every actor is given his or her own unique characterization.
Spirtas has noteworthy chemistry with his co-stars Mike McGowan and Mitchell Anderson (who appears as Jason both as a ghost and in flashbacks). It is full of intricacy, sympathy, and compassion.
Slade and Spirtas are visionaries that co-created a captivating LGBTQ tale that focuses on the love story of gay men over the age of 50.
In this season, Brian (Emmy award-winning actor Kevin Spirtas) is dating David (Mike McGowan), who was introduced to him by Jason’s parents: Frannie and Carl played by Anita Gillette and Lenny Wolpe respectively. Anita Gillette keeps on delivering dynamic and emotional performances as Jason’s mourning mother.
Brian is trying to move on with the help of his family and friends, but he is still wrestling the memory of Jason, who still feels very much a big part of his life and every decision-making process. Emmy-nominated actor Mitchell Anderson reprises his role as Jason and really triumphs in it, while Mike McGowan is a revelation as David.
Kevin Spirtas brings so many deep layers to his complex character, Brian, and the audience can’t help but sympathize with him and feel his pain and sorrow. He is raw, dramatic, and convincing. Spirtas’ tour de force acting really hits the viewers like a shot in the heart, and he proves that he is a miracle actor.
Veteran actress Mary Beth Peil is sensational as Brian’s mother, Helen, and she gives a memorable, sentimental performance. Cady Huffman also does solid work as Lisa keeping the memory of her late friend, Jason, alive through her singing and bittersweet scenes with Brian. Emmy winner Erin Cherry is back as Brenda, who is the voice of reason in Brian’s workplace.
At last year’s Daytime Emmy Awards, After Forever won five Emmy Awards including the coveted award for “Outstanding Digital Drama Series,” and this new year, it looks like it’s on its way of earning many more well-deserved Emmy nominations and accolades.
Creators Michael Slade and Kevin Spirtas served as executive producers with Allison Vanore as producer and director Tina Cesa Ward, who expertly shot this film.
While the series tugs at the heart, it inspires our zest to live our lives to the fullest extent. Slade and Spirtas are able to create something deeply emotional especially in the last two episodes of Season 2 that the audience is bound to find relatable, especially for anybody who is living with loss. It conveys the message that grief is universal, and that everybody copes with it differently.
The second season of After Forever is available on Amazon Prime Video by clicking here.
The Verdict
Overall, the second season of After Forever really tugs at the heartstrings. It deserves to be enjoyed for its pathos, heartfelt writing, and honesty. The entire cast delivers bravura acting performances all around that will certainly move their viewers, which ought to have a box of Kleenex handy.
There is something in it for everybody, and anybody who has ever lost a loved one can relate to its theme and poignant message. The second season of After Forever earns five out of five stars. Congratulations to all for a job well done.
To learn more about After Forever, check out its official website and its Facebook page.
