As a critic, there’s a certain satisfaction in knowing what a show promises and then seeing it deliver. “Gen V” is precisely that kind of series. You brace yourself for over-the-top violence (yes, expect eye trauma), explicit scenes, coarse language, sharp social commentary, and dark humor, and the premiere episode does not disappoint.
“Gen V” isn’t just a spin-off; it serves as a vital link in ‘The Boys’ universe, exploring the lives of young meta-humans at the notorious Godolkin University—a far darker take on Xavier’s School. Picking up after the devastating events of ‘The Boys’ Season 4, where Homelander seized control of America and, by extension, Godolkin, Season 2 immediately highlights the growing divide between ordinary humans and supes.
Lizze Broadway as Emma Meyer in a still from ‘Gen V’
The volatile climate is further inflamed by Firecracker (Valorie Curry), whose aggressive propaganda, and Dogknott (Zach McGowan), a trigger-happy mercenary, only escalate tensions between humans and supes. In this powder keg atmosphere, even a simple barista discovers the harsh reality of the brewing revolution.
Meanwhile, Emma (Lizze Broadway), with her ability to dramatically change size, and the versatile Jordan Li (London Thor and Derek Luh), are offered a grim deal after enduring months of trauma at the Elmira Center. Their incarceration followed their investigation into the unspeakable horrors of The Woods. Now, to return to Godolkin—a place the influential telepath Cate (Maddie Phillips) assures them is safe—they must toe the official line: blame the late former dean, Indira Shetty, for everything that happened.
Gen V Season 2 (English)
- Episodes: 3 of 8 (with weekly drops)
- Runtime: 45-54 minutes per episode
- Creator: Michele Fazekas
- Cast: Jaz Sinclair, Lizze Broadway, Maddie Phillips, London Thor, Derek Luh, Asa Germann, Sean Patrick Thomas, Hamish Linklater
- Storyline: The second year at Godolkin University is packed with drama, mystery, and plenty of gore.
Beyond attending mandatory social events and making public appearances organized by the Head of Student Life, Stacey Ferrara (Stacey McGunnigle)—who, unsettlingly, has a literal sting protruding from her back—Emma and Jordan must also confront Marie (Jaz Sinclair), who abandoned them at Elmira. They also grapple with the tragic death of Andre, a character whose storyline was thoughtfully adjusted after the passing of actor Chance Perdomo in March 2024.
Marie, a supe with powerful blood manipulation abilities who was previously on the run, is persuaded to return to Godolkin. She is tasked by Starlight (Erin Moriarty) to unearth the dark secrets of “Odessa,” a clandestine project initiated by university founder Thomas Godolkin (Ethan Slater). This horrifying initiative reportedly involved numerous infant deaths, with only one known survivor.
The mysterious new dean, Cipher (Hamish Linklater), lives up to his enigmatic name. He is determined to transform the students into formidable soldiers for an impending conflict with humanity. His brutal training includes pitting students against super-strong killing machines, with escape only possible by reaching a designated ‘end-of-class’ button.
Jaz Sinclair as Marie Moreau and London Thor as Jordan Li in a still from ‘Gen V’
Sam (Asa Germann) remains deeply unsettled by the events at The Woods, seeking guidance from Cate, who seems either incapable or unwilling to offer support. Meanwhile, Polarity (Sean Patrick Thomas), Andre’s father, after a prolonged period of grieving and self-medication, joins the Godolkin faculty, driven by a fierce determination to uncover the truth behind his son’s demise.
These initial three episodes brilliantly lay the groundwork for a season promising even greater explosions, shocking revelations, and dark humor. The writing remains as incisive as ever, highlighted by moments like the seemingly clueless Modesty Monarch’s deadpan declaration, “I firmly believe that feminism has ruined America.” Or Marie’s sharp retort when told she might be the one to save the world: “Chosen ones are baby-faced white dudes, not someone who looks like me.”
Drawing inspiration from Garth Ennis and Darick Robertson’s comic book arc “We Gotta Go Now,” “Gen V” continues to masterfully blend the wonders and chaos of youth, capturing the essence of looking back with fury and forward with cautious optimism, all while ensuring a few heads spectacularly explode along the way.
Season 2 of “Gen V” is currently streaming on Amazon Prime Video, with new episodes releasing weekly until October 22.