Lioness - (Paramount+) 

By: Rachel Brodeur

Returning for its second season, Lioness achieves what many action films struggle to: it masterfully combines adrenaline-fueled gunfights with a gripping narrative. Streaming on Paramount+, this series from illustrious creator Taylor Sheridan of Yellowstone fame,  is a must-watch from the beginning. Rest assured, though, this review steers clear of any spoilers from season one, despite the strong continuity between seasons.

Lioness features Zoe Saldana (Avatar, Guardians of the Galaxy), as lead operative heading a covert CIA program dedicated to infiltrating terrorist cells and the circles of high-value targets that pose threats to the sovereignty of the United States. Each season is built around an overarching mission, but the evolving objectives along the way showcase the special skills of military operators as they push themselves physically, mentally and emotionally. Season two features many returning characters and layers in the growth of the bonds formed by these teammates who rely on each other in a way almost closer than their own families. 

Of those returning, more time is given to big-screen icons, Nicole Kidman and Morgan Freeman. Despite being on the same side, their relationship as CIA senior supervisor and Secretary of State, respectively, is often contentious, and seeing these two go head to head weighing the politics of perception, international relations, against mission objectives makes for nuanced and heightened drama. Some of their moves are for the public, and some must remain hidden. These two acting powerhouses communicate the tacit understanding of what needs to remain unspoken in order to shield the presidency while still completing military objectives. 

Lioness features competent people working at the top point of their skill. In a show where everyone is a badass, it will fuel the patriotism of its American viewers. However, be warned, war is not without its horrors and casualties, and there are moments of violence and torture that some viewers may find tough to watch. 

Rachel’s Rating: 8/10  

The second season of Lioness (available on Paramount+) celebrates the skill and heroism of the United States military covert operators in this intense, action-packed drama. Stars Zoe Saldana, Nicole Kidman and Morgan Freeman add depth and tension as the high-ranking government officials behind the boots on the ground missions, struggling to balance the public actions of the government with the subversive, often controversial needs of undercover operations.