Television enthusiasts can now immerse themselves in eight brand-new episodes of what critics are calling a "masterful" hidden gem. The highly anticipated second season of Disney Plus's period heist drama, The Artful Dodger, has finally premiered after a three-year hiatus, delivering another captivating chapter in this imaginative sequel to Charles Dickens' Oliver Twist.
A Compelling Continuation of a Beloved Story
Set fifteen years after the events of the original tale, the series follows the adult life of the titular thief, Jack Dawkins, portrayed by Thomas Brodie Sangster. Now attempting to leave his criminal past behind, Dawkins is training to become a surgeon in the 1850s Australian colonial town of Port Victory. His plans for redemption are abruptly disrupted when his former mentor, the cunning Fagin, played by David Thewlis, reappears, pulling him reluctantly back into a world of crime.
As Dawkins navigates this dual life as a light-fingered physician, he encounters Lady Belle Fox, a determined and intellectual woman played by Maia Mitchell, who is fiercely pursuing her own medical career. Their meeting ignites a slow-burn romance that has become a central focus of the show, captivating audiences with its depth and chemistry.
Critical Acclaim and Audience Adoration
The first season of this under-the-radar drama garnered impressive reviews, achieving a 92% critics score and a 96% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, quickly building a devoted fanbase. The newly released second season has surpassed even these high expectations, landing a perfect 100% score from early critical assessments.
Publications have been effusive in their praise. The Times noted, "Brodie-Sangster and Thewlis are a fine double act, and it's all so breezy you barely pause to consider how unlikely the whole romp is. An artful dodge indeed." Meanwhile, the Beverly Hills Courier highlighted that "the casting is as masterful as the writing is imaginative."
Fan Reactions and Social Media Buzz
Viewers have echoed this enthusiasm across social media platforms. One fan, Tania H, commented, "Incredibly interesting show that hasn't been advertised enough in my opinion. Finished watching all in one day and hope to watch another season." Another viewer, NikNak, added, "One of the best TV shows that I've seen in a very long while. Well written and acted. Very engaging and enjoyable to watch."
On X, user corthreadgoode shared, "Jack and Belle are back. Truly, they have some of the most underrated chemistry, and one of the most beautiful love stories currently on television. I truly recommend watching the show."
Industry Recognition and Creative Insights
Entertainment outlets have also celebrated the show's return. Collider hailed, "The Artful Dodger's Season two return guarantees that viewers will remember it as one of the decade's best historical series." Screenhub teased, "Delightfully, after a debut run that left audiences wanting more, the show's second season perfectly picks up where its first batch of episodes left off."
Creator James McNamara explained his inspiration for the series in an interview with SweetyHigh, stating, "I love 19th century literature. It just tickles my brain. While I really like Oliver Twist as a book, I just don't like Oliver that much as a character. For me, when Dodger and Fagin arrive, it's like the book comes alive. They electrically charge that story."
Metro's Perspective and Final Thoughts
Senior TV reporter Asyia Iftikhar, who was captivated by the first season, expressed eager anticipation for the new episodes. She noted, "Thomas Brodie Sangster brought a brilliant energy to our titular reformed thief, and I was completely drawn into his fiery, sharp chemistry with co-star Maia Mitchell." Iftikhar emphasized that the show offers "plenty of criminal cahoots to dig your teeth into" while also delivering a historical romance that "will sweep you in and leave you hooked."
With all eight episodes now available for streaming on Disney Plus, The Artful Dodger continues to prove itself as a standout in the historical drama genre, blending heist excitement with heartfelt storytelling and earning its place as a must-watch series.
