'Heels' Season 2 Explores American Dream, Identity Through Wrestling's Brutal Arena

In the second season of "Heels," the gripping wrestling drama explores the complexities of the American dream and the bitter truths of hard work. Despite the DWL's renewed momentum, owner Jack Spade confronts challenges as his brother Ace grapples with the aftermath of a humiliating stunt, the legitimacy of new champ Crystal Tyler is questioned, and a wealthy rival threatens to overshadow them. Amidst this turmoil, female characters play pivotal roles, with Crystal's success leading to a women's division, while Jack's business partner Willie confronts her past and future after a new opportunity emerges.

Heels Season 2: A Grappling Examination of American Striving and Identity

In the gladiatorial arena of professional wrestling, where the spectacle of athletic prowess and the narratives of human drama intertwine, the second season of Starz's acclaimed drama "Heels" unfolds as a poignant exploration of American existence, grappling with the profound questions of contentment and ambition.

At the heart of this new chapter lies the Duffy Wrestling League (DWL), a struggling promotion that finds itself basking in the limelight after a blockbuster match at last season's Georgia State Fair. This unexpected surge in popularity brings with it a plethora of challenges for DWL owner and head writer Jack Spade (Stephen Amell), who inherited the league after his father's tragic suicide.

Jack's journey epitomizes the season's overarching theme. Haunted by his father's abandonment, he desperately attempts to control the events in his life, mirroring his calculated moves in the wrestling ring. However, this relentless pursuit of control masks a deep-seated anger and resentment that threatens to consume him. Amell delivers a masterful performance, effortlessly switching between Jack's charming showmanship and the simmering hostility that permeates his interactions.

Meanwhile, Jack's younger brother, Ace (Alexander Ludwig), emerges from the fog of grief and resentment that enveloped him after their father's death. Ludwig's portrayal of Ace undergoes a profound transformation, as this once boisterous character matures into a thoughtful and introspective man. Ace's journey serves as a poignant reminder of the transformative power of adversity and the importance of confronting one's past.

Alongside Jack and Ace, the second season of "Heels" introduces a captivating cast of supporting characters. Crystal Tyler (Kelli Berglund), the reigning DWL champion, faces scrutiny and skepticism as questions arise about the legitimacy of her title. Mary McCormack shines as Willie, Jack's business partner and former aspiring wrestler, who grapples with the weight of unfulfilled dreams and the consequences of past betrayals.

The arrival of Charlie Gully (showrunner Mike O'Malley), head of the rival Florida Wrestling Dystopia promotion, adds a layer of tension and conflict to the already tumultuous DWL landscape. O'Malley brings his signature comedic genius to the role, engaging in hilarious banter with Amell's Jack.

The ensemble cast is further enriched by standout performances from Joel Murray as the DWL's sponsor-turned-investor, Marcia DeBonis as Willie's stage manager, Robbie Ramos as the chipper luchador Diego Cottonmouth, and AEW superstar CM Punk as veteran grappler Ricky Rabies.

While "Heels" succeeds in treating the often-overlooked world of professional wrestling with respect and nuance, it does occasionally stumble into melodrama and corny plot devices. However, these missteps are ultimately overshadowed by the show's poignant exploration of human nature and its enduring themes of ambition, identity, and the pursuit of happiness.

As the eight-episode season builds to a climactic event, "Heels" offers a captivating and thought-provoking examination of American striving and the complexities of human relationships. Just as in the world of professional wrestling, even the most shaky of foundations can serve as a platform for spectacular payoffs.

Grade: B+

Heels Season 2 premieres Friday, July 28, at 10 p.m. ET/PT on Starz.