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You are here: Home / Reviews / Sweet Magnolias S2 review: Familiar favorites and stunning surprises

Sweet Magnolias S2 review: Familiar favorites and stunning surprises

February 4, 2022 by Tracey Phillipps Leave a Comment

Sweet Magnolias. Brooke Elliott as Dana Sue Sullivan in episode 209 of Sweet Magnolias. Cr. Steve Swisher/Netflix © 2021
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Sweet Magnolias season 2 is now available on Netflix. What can viewers expect?

Season two of Sweet Magnolias is like a comfortable couch that envelopes you. Even when things become scary or uncertain, hope and friendship prevail.

Sweet Magnolias. (L to R) Brooke Elliott as Dana Sue Sullivan, Heather Headley as Helen Decatur, Joanna Garcia Swisher as Maddie Townsend in episode 202 of Sweet Magnolias. Cr. Richard Ducree/Netflix © 2021
Sweet Magnolias. (L to R) Brooke Elliott as Dana Sue Sullivan, Heather Headley as Helen Decatur, Joanna Garcia Swisher as Maddie Townsend in episode 202 of Sweet Magnolias. Cr. Richard Ducree/Netflix © 2021

The combination of exceptional writing, balanced storytelling, and authentic portrayals results in a very gratifying journey. Viewers can expect to sink further into that comfy couch as some of the mysteries from season one find resolution. But do not expect to fall asleep on the couch! Some questions are answered quickly while others linger further before being answered. New mysteries also emerge along with several surprises.

Sweet Magnolias also has a unique ability to weave seamlessly in and out of multiple storylines. James Jandrisch’s musical score certainly facilitates those transitions. The pacing allows just enough time for viewers to absorb the emotion of one scene before shifting gears to another. You might say it’s like comfortably rolling over on the couch.

Authentic portrayals add credibility to the relationships in Sweet Magnolias. Friends, romantic partners, and adversaries are all believable thanks to the nuanced choices by the actors. We know what it means when Helen stares you down or Maddie playfully rolls her eyes. Less exposition is needed in a second season. Characters have been established and can now be explored more deeply. Again, think about really settling into the nooks of that sofa.

Sweet Magnolias. Justin Bruening as Cal Maddox in episode 202 of Sweet Magnolias. Cr. Richard Ducree/Netflix © 2021
Sweet Magnolias. Justin Bruening as Cal Maddox in episode 202 of Sweet Magnolias. Cr. Richard Ducree/Netflix © 2021

Read on for my personal list of highlights in season 2.

(minor spoilers ahead)

Cal’s sense of humor

We get to see a new side of Cal this time around. The brawny gentle giant and romantic hero of season one gets funnier, even a little goofy in season 2. I enjoy seeing this other side of him. It makes him feel more real and established in the community. Whether on the basketball court or interacting with Maddie’s circle of friends, Cal shows us he’s more than just the hunk.

But his comedy is not the only thing that may surprise you about Cal this season. Be prepared to see some of his frailties as well.

Dana Sue’s confidence

While Dana Sue was often flustered and overwhelmed in season 1, we see her facing life with more confidence in season 2. With two men pursuing her romantically, we also get more of Dana Sue, the woman, not just the chef.

We see Dana Sue making more time for romance and family as she allows her reliable kitchen staff to keep the restaurant running. Interestingly, it is a young child that gets her the most flustered this season.

Annie’s maturity

Annie also presents with more confidence this season. Perhaps the events of prom night have given her new perspective. Or maybe it stems from spending more time with her father. She has a mature but ethereal style this season that suits her very well. I think Annie is taking charge of her decisions and not just accepting what comes her way.

Helen’s vulnerability

Helen is a beautiful, smart, and very capable woman, but she is human after all. We never want to see our favorite characters go through difficult times. When Helen faces a tragic event this season, she allows her friends, old and new, to comfort and support her. There is great beauty in that. She even gives herself time and space for self-care.

Helen also takes a risk with her heart this season allowing us to further explore her rich personality.

Sweet Magnolias. (L to R) Joanna Garcia Swisher as Maddie Townsend, Caroline Lagerfelt as Paula Vreeland in episode 201 of Sweet Magnolias. Cr. Courtesy Of Netflix © 2021
Sweet Magnolias. (L to R) Joanna Garcia Swisher as Maddie Townsend, Caroline Lagerfelt as Paula Vreeland in episode 201 of Sweet Magnolias. Cr. Courtesy Of Netflix © 2021

Paula shines

Maddie’s mom, Paula Vreeland, gets more screen time this season as she helps with caregiving after Kyle’s accident. It is a treat to spend more time with her. She maintains her sass but offers much wisdom and comfort as well. Last season highlighted the ways Paula, an artist, is not always the most conventional mother. But this time around we see that she has both unorthodox and traditional gifts to offer her family.

I must add that Caroline Lagerfelt is absolutely stunning. She has a glamorous mature beauty that draws you in every time she is on screen.

More Trotter

My wish for more development for Trotter’s character came true. He continues to be a beacon of support to those around him while looking at his own future with husband Ashley.

And, finally, watch for a fun cameo for baseball fans!


Follow So Many Shows for continuing coverage of Sweet Magnolias. Look for recaps where we revisit each episode in more detail. You can also watch for trivia to see how closely you have watched season 2!

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Filed Under: Articles, Reviews Tagged With: Brandon Quinn, Brooke Elliott, Dan Paulson, Dion Johnstone, Heather Headley, Jamie Lynn Spears, JoAnna Garcia Swisher, Justin Bruening, Netflix, Sherryl Woods, Sweet Magnolias, Sweet Magnolias season 2

About Tracey Phillipps

Enthusiastic SMS contributor, interviewer and co-host of the Lincoln Law Pod and Everybody Counts Podcasts 🎧🎙

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