The Umbrella Academy Season 2: Episode 1 – Right Back Where We Started

Introduction

"The Umbrella Academy" is a Netflix original series based on the comic book series of the same name by Gerard Way and Gabriel Bá. The show, created by Steve Blackman, premiered in 2019 and quickly gained a loyal following for its unique blend of superhero drama, time travel, and family dynamics. Season 2, which debuted on July 31, 2020, continues the intricate and complex narrative of the Hargreeves siblings as they navigate through time and confront new challenges.

The first episode of Season 2, "Right Back Where We Started," is directed by Sylvain White and written by Steve Blackman. This episode sets the stage for the rest of the season, delving into the consequences of the siblings’ actions in the previous season and introducing new plot threads that expand the show’s universe.

Plot Summary

The episode "Right Back Where We Started" opens with Five, one of the Hargreeves siblings, stumbling out of an alleyway to find himself in an alternate history where the Soviet Union has attacked U.S. soil, marking a significant divergence from the timeline the audience is familiar with ^[1][4].

As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Five’s attempt to save his siblings from the impending apocalypse at the end of Season 1 has resulted in each of them being scattered across different years in Dallas, Texas. Five’s mission is to track down his siblings and prevent a new doomsday threat.

Luther, the first of the siblings to be found, is living in 1962 and has become a boxer, using his enhanced strength to excel in the sport. However, his life is mundane and lacks the purpose he once had as a member of the Umbrella Academy.

Diego, on the other hand, lands in 1963 and quickly finds himself in trouble with the law. His arrival is marked by a dramatic pose, reminiscent of the "superhero landing" seen in other franchises, highlighting his continued struggle with his superhero identity ^[2].

Allison, who has married a political activist named Raymond, is deeply involved in the African-American community in Dallas. She owns a salon that serves as a hub for community gatherings and discussions about social change. Despite her integration into this new life, Allison’s knowledge of future events, particularly the assassination of President Kennedy, weighs heavily on her.

Vanya, after being hit by a car, is taken in by a family who are unaware of her true identity and powers. Her integration into this new family is complicated by her past and the danger that follows her.

Klaus, who ends up in 1960, quickly falls into his old habits, struggling with addiction and finding solace in a local bar. His arrival sets off a chain of events that leads to his arrest and further complications.

Throughout the episode, the siblings face various challenges as they adjust to their new lives in different eras. The narrative is interspersed with flashbacks and glimpses into their past, highlighting the emotional and psychological scars they carry.

As Five works to reunite his siblings, they begin to uncover the mysteries of their new timeline. They soon realize that their actions have significant consequences and that they are not just passive observers in this new reality.

The episode culminates with the siblings starting to come together, each bringing their unique skills and experiences to the table as they prepare to face the new threats that this altered timeline presents.

Themes and Symbolism

"Right Back Where We Started" delves into several key themes that are central to the series. One of the most prominent is the concept of identity and how it is shaped by time and circumstance. Each sibling’s journey in a different year forces them to confront aspects of themselves that they may have suppressed or overlooked.

The episode also explores the theme of family and the bonds that tie the Hargreeves siblings together. Despite being scattered across different years, their shared experiences and mutual dependence on each other remain a constant.

Symbolism plays a significant role, particularly in the use of time travel as a metaphor for the characters’ emotional journeys. The different eras they find themselves in serve as backdrops for their personal growth and struggles, highlighting the idea that time is fluid and that the past, present, and future are interconnected.

The alternate history setting, with the Soviet Union attacking U.S. soil, serves as a backdrop to explore themes of chaos and the unpredictability of the future. This setting underscores the idea that even small actions can have profound consequences on the timeline.

Cultural Impact

The release of "Right Back Where We Started" was highly anticipated, given the success of the first season. The episode was well-received by audiences, who praised its complex storytelling, character development, and the unique twist on the time travel genre.

The episode’s influence on pop culture is evident in its references to other time travel franchises and its impact on the broader superhero genre. The show’s blend of science fiction and family drama has made it a standout in the Netflix lineup.

Critical Reception

Critics praised the episode for its ambitious storytelling and the way it expanded the show’s universe. The performances of the cast, particularly Tom Hopper as Luther and Ellen Page as Vanya, were highlighted as strong points.

However, some critics noted that the episode’s pacing could be overwhelming, given the multiple timelines and character arcs. Despite this, the overall consensus was that "Right Back Where We Started" was a compelling start to the second season.

Legacy

"Right Back Where We Started" has left a lasting impact on the series and its fans. It set the stage for a season that explored complex themes and introduced new characters, further enriching the world of "The Umbrella Academy."

The episode’s use of time travel and alternate histories has influenced other shows and movies in the genre, demonstrating the creative potential of blending science fiction with family drama.

In conclusion, "Right Back Where We Started" is a pivotal episode in "The Umbrella Academy" series, marking a new chapter in the Hargreeves siblings’ journey through time and family dynamics.