As a fan of the enigmatic and brilliantly acted first season of "True Detective," approaching Season 2, demands a shift in expectations. While the season tries to weave a complex narrative, it stumbles significantly in its casting choices, particularly with Vince Vaughn as Frank Semyon.
Vaughn, known for his charismatic and lively performances in films like "Wedding Crashers," seems out of his depth in this grim noir setting. His portrayal of Frank is wooden and uninspired, a far cry from the vibrant characters he's played in the past. This disconnect is jarring and turns what could have been a captivating character into a lackluster presence that drains energy from the scene.
In stark contrast, Colin Farrell stands out as the best of the cast, delivering a nuanced performance that keeps the viewers engaged. Rachel McAdams also does a commendable job, bringing much-needed depth and complexity to her role. Taylor Kitsch, while portraying a character that also suffers from the show's overall tonal issues, at least manages to appear more intriguing than Vaughn's Frank.
In summary, while the season struggles to capture the magic of its predecessor, it's the casting of Vaughn that stands out as a particularly glaring misstep.