The first episode of That ’90s Show Part 2 ushers viewers back into the nostalgic world of the 1990s with the ultimate earworm, “Macarena.” Unlike its predecessor, Part 1, this series seems to have fully embraced its identity, evolving into something that can be enjoyed on its own. While some connections to That ’70s Show remain, featuring some original cast members reprising their iconic roles, these elements are woven into the narrative just right, striking a balance that is both heartwarming and refreshing. Audiences can revel in Shaggy’s “Boombastic,” famously sultry tunes like Carmen Electra dancing to La Bouche’s “Be My Lover,” Toni Braxton’s soulful “Un-Break My Heart,” and Des’ree’s emotive “I’m Kissing You,” which resurrects the evocative aquarium scene from Romeo + Juliet.
This time around, it’s 1996, and Leia (Callie Haverda) finds herself back at her grandparents’ home—Kitty (Debra Jo Rupp) and Red (Kurtwood Smith) in Wisconsin. The conclusion of Part 1 tantalized viewers with a near-kiss between Leia and Nate (Maxwell Acee Donovan), a twist that introduces a tangled web of teenage romantic drama. Leia is currently dating Jay (Mace Coronel), while Nate is in a relationship with Nikki (Sam Morelos). To complicate matters even more, Nate is the brother of Gwen (Ashley Aufderheide), who happens to be Leia’s best friend. As expected, this intricate setup generates a series of bumps and misunderstandings along the way.
Keeping their almost-kiss a secret proves to be an impossible task for Leia and Nate, and it all unravels in an unexpected and explosive manner—right on the radio. Ozzie (Reyn Doi), blissfully unaware of the romantic complexities surrounding him, inadvertently reveals the secret while attempting to win tickets to a Spice Girls concert.
Adding fuel to the narrative fire, the series navigates through a humorous and tense pregnancy scare, a string of wild parties where even the prudent Kitty finds herself a little too tipsy, and efforts from Kitty and Red to rekindle the spark in their marriage. The storyline even jet-sets to Paris, allowing the audience to savor different cultural slices of life and the ongoing, often hilarious rivalry between Leia’s grandfathers, Red and Bob (Don Stark).
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Some plot aspects may stretch credulity, especially the characters’ modern reactions to issues like racism and homosexuality. Such responses are undeniably more in line with today’s sensibilities rather than those expected in 1990s Wisconsin, which could irk some viewers seeking authenticity.
In the acting department, the older cast, particularly Debra Jo Rupp and Kurtwood Smith, undoubtedly carry much of the weight. However, this doesn’t mean the younger ensemble falls short. The teenage cast members exhibit a lively camaraderie, resulting in some genuinely laugh-out-loud moments. Sherri (Andrea Anders), portraying Nate and Gwen’s mom, as well as Donna (Laura Prepon), who plays Leia’s mom, bring additional layers of fun and nostalgia to the series.
At a breezy 24 minutes per episode, That ’90s Show Part 2 doesn’t demand too much of your time. Refreshingly, the series doesn’t lean overly on nostalgia or gratuitous cameos from the original show. Instead, it invests in the new generation of Point Place teenagers, making new memories while respecting the past. This approach is both commendable and endearing, offering the audience something to look forward to.
As fans eagerly await Part 3, which is scheduled to drop on October 24, they can find comfort in the endearing shenanigans, compelling character arcs, and rich 90s cultural tapestry that That ’90s Show Part 2 offers. It is currently available for streaming on Netflix, providing old fans and new viewers alike a joyous journey through a time not too distant but filled with a vibrant, feel-good essence.
