Three reasons why the two-part ‘Wednesday’ release is worth it
No one plays with fans’ patience as much as Netflix does. From theatrical aversion to splitting seasons in half, every step the streaming giant takes calls for controversy. But the debates and discussions surrounding Wednesday’s two-part second season have honestly reached a fever pitch, even though we’re now closer than ever to the season finale.
Good things take time. Likewise, Wednesday’s follow-up season is no exception. However, in an age of instant gratification, coupled with the worries of shrinking attention spans, this two-part strategy is nothing less than a trial by fire for Netflix.
Sure, the stakes have grown high. Fans can finally get twice the dose of the Addams family shenanigans. Still, Netflix’s strategy for this hit black comedy series feels like a double-edged sword.
While many have talked about the downsides and drawbacks of splitting Wednesday season two in half, how about we turn the tables and focus on the brighter side? In case you couldn’t pinpoint any, here are three compelling reasons why this two-part release could actually be a game-changer.
Three reasons why the two-part Wednesday release is worth it
Twice the dose of suspense
Netflix may have risked a loss of momentum with its strategic two-part release of Wednesday’s second season.
But not many can deny that the break actually made space for the creators to double down on two different cliffhangers – one that urges you to return to see what’s up with the comatose Addams’ child and another that answers the questions burning on our minds.
Higher stakes
Wednesday’s mid-season finale was less of a break and more of a horror interval. Had the creators chosen a continuous streak to narrate this Nevermore arc, it could have robbed viewers of the chance to relish the bumpy ride.
Not only would it have flattened the storyline, but it could also have excused the enduring discussions of what-if and what-might-be, paving a path for a cultural void where brainstorming and fan theories have no room.
Prolonged momentum
Viewers are typically inclined towards continuous narrative arcs. So, it makes complete sense that they are worried that this mid-season break could break the rhythm. But what if it churns out renewed focus? The cultural impact of the Netflix series was at its peak throughout August. And with September on the horizon, the streamer is clearly capitalising on an enduring momentum.
The season gap was not without its terrific curveballs, which left fandoms on high alert. Plus, given that Wednesday has been renewed for a third season, the season finale will similarly leave ample time for fan theories to unfurl. Continuous storytelling may have garnered showbiz attention for a month. However, the intermission ensures it’s not lost easily from popular culture, thanks to the constant arrivals of Wednesday-coded cultural events such as the Graveyard Gala, sneak peeks, and part two trailer.