The highly anticipated second season of Outlander begins this weekend. If, for some reason, the highly acclaimed show and it’s dedicated fan base have passed you by, then it’s time to get up to speed…..
What’s it about?
Outlander starts in 1945’s post-war Britain where former combat nurse, Claire Randall and her husband, Frank, are holidaying in Scotland while researching Frank’s family history. Claire visits some a local standing stone circle and is mysteriously swept back in time to 1743. Immediately put in danger by one of her husband’s ancestors, Jack, she’s saved by a local group of men, including the dashing Jamie Fraser. Eventually falling for Jamie, Claire finds herself torn between two men, two worlds and two times.
Who’s in it?
The show has made stars of its breakout leads, Caitriona Balfe and Sam Heughan but it is littered with other familiar faces. You might recognise Tobias Menzies (Frank/Jack Randall), Graham McTavish or Bill Paterson.
It looks stunning…
Set and filmed in rural Scotland, it’s a feast for the eyes, especially as a large part of the story involves castles and galloping around the hills on horseback.
But beware…
It’s graphic. If you’re of a sensitive nature, it has some seriously brutal scenes of torture and rape amongst other things. It pulls no punches, especially later in the season, but don’t let that put you off, it’s all make-believe and the performances are incredible.
Season one highlight…
Perhaps episode 7, ‘The Wedding’ could be considered the high point of season one. It’s a big turning point for both the leads as Claire if forced into marrying Jamie to save herself. It’s also contains the series first big sex scenes, and joyfully, has the female character taking control.
The hook…
The love triangle. Claire’s love for both her husbands is at the forefront of the story, but there is also the time travel element. Claire, being from the future, knows what’s ahead for the Highlanders.
And about Season 2…
Without giving too much away, family Frazer rock up in Paris determined to change history and stop the Jacobite rebellion putting an end to the historical slaughter that happened at Culloden before it can even happen.
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