Dark Matter season two

When physicist Jason Dessen (Joel Edgerton) is taken into an alternate reality, the first season of Dark Matter (adapted from Blake Crouch’s novel of the same name) followed him as he tried to find his way home. Picking up shortly after the events of the finale, the second series sees Jason and his family trying to make a new life for themselves. However, they’re soon forced to go back on the run when they’re discovered. Meanwhile, Ryan (Jimmi Simpson) and Amanda (Alice Braga) join forces in an effort to return to their own worlds, and a mysterious agent played by Chris Diamantopoulos is on a mission to track down Jasons from other universes. Carried by an extraordinary cast, the second season delivers a sombre exploration of the fallout of the characters’ situations.

The performances remain this show’s greatest strength. Edgerton continues to be magnificent throughout. Each version of his character feels distinctly like their own person. Even if that Jason is only on screen for one scene, the actor’s incarnation is enough for viewers to get a sense of who they are. Nowhere are his talents better seen than in an almost silent performance during the series’ midpoint. With barely any dialogue, Edgerton makes every emotional beat land with heartbreaking force in what is easily this season’s standout episode. Jennifer Connelly and Oakes Fegley are also fantastic as Jason’s wife and son, with each actor getting plenty of time to shine.

The restrained pacing gives each scene space to breathe. While there are still the occasional action set pieces and dramatic stings that push the narrative forward, viewers will spend large parts of each episode becoming more acquainted with the key players as they listen to in-depth conversations and watch intimate moments unfold. As the show cuts between various plotlines featuring different versions of the same character, it can be easy for audiences to get lost if they’re not paying close attention.

The second series of Dark Matter is a sensational follow-up that serves as a sequel to both the novel and series. Crouch organically weaves a profoundly human story that seamlessly builds on where his novel left off, executed by incredible turns from Edgerton and Connelly. However, viewers may want to refresh themselves on the details before diving back into this mind-bending thriller.

Andrew Murray

Dark Matter season two is released on Apple TV+ on 28^th August 2026.

Watch the trailer for Dark Matter season two here: