After a long wait, "Weak Hero Class 2" finally aired on April 25, 2025. This Netflix drama follows the story of Yeon Si Eun (Park Ji Hoon), who transfers to Eun Jang High School after being haunted by trauma from a violent past that she could not prevent. Determined not to lose any more friends, Si Eun dives into more brutal fights.
Based on the popular Naver webtoon, "Weak Hero Class" began as a Wavve original series in 2022. Season 1 was praised for its raw depiction of teenage struggles, deep character relationships, and action scenes that pioneered a new path for school action dramas.
"Weak Hero Class" season 2, now backed by Netflix, comes with higher production values and a broader scope. However, by focusing on explosive action and a wider universe, including rival school gangs, the drama seems to have lost the emotional weight and character depth that made season 1 shine.
The inclusion of a "school gang alliance" that operates like a massive crime syndicate: stealing cell phones, selling motorbikes and running mafia-like operations, feels over the top, especially considering that all of the characters are supposed to be high school students.
The visual dissonance of the adult-looking actors in school uniforms committing serious crimes adds to the gap. Worse still, the main storyline involving Park Hu Min (Ryeoun) and Na Baek Jin (Bae Na Ra) lacks impact. For a plot that takes up so much screen time, the emotional backstory and motivations between the two childhood friends turned rivals feel weak and underdeveloped.
Their escalating conflict is unconvincing, making the final moments of "Weak Hero Class 2," especially the post-credits scene, feel underwhelming. The dialogue in "Weak Hero Class 2" has also been criticized for being subpar.
At times, the characters sound like they're stuck in an embarrassing teenage angst phase, muttering melodramatic lines that undermine engagement. Without strong character bonds, even the most intense dialogue fails to leave a lasting impression.
Nevertheless, the action sequences in "Weak Hero Class 2" do work, especially in the early episodes. From alleyways to rooftops, each episode features intense, fast-paced fights with solid choreography. However, at the climax when the group at Si Eun's new school faces the school's big gang, the illusion is shattered.
Although the sound effects are brutal, the punches clearly miss, and the fakeness of the fight scenes in "Weak Hero Class 2" is hard to ignore. Still, "Weak Hero Class 2" isn't without its merits. This season introduces new faces like Choi Min Young and Lee Min Jae.
Both actors give great performances and bring life to previously unimportant roles. Ultimately, “Weak Hero Class 2” looks good thanks to Netflix, but it feels hollow. The emotional core and interesting character dynamics of Season 1 have been replaced with bigger—but emptier—sets. The action is bigger, but the story is weaker.
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