Netflix thriller “Black Doves” returns with a second season featuring Keira Knightley as undercover spy Helen Webb and Ben Whishaw as gun-for-hire Sam. Across reviews and previews, outlets describe more twists, fast action, and violence, with the show also mixing dark humour and emotional moments. Several pieces note Sarah Lancashire’s character, handler Mrs Reed, is central to the season’s setup, including her being absent or “going awol.”
Context in the coverage centres on the series’ premise: a private intelligence operation in London involving covert missions and assassinations, alongside a focus on character chemistry and relationships. Reviews characterise the new run as a continuation that sustains or increases its momentum, with writers highlighting performances by the leads and Sarah Lancashire, and describing the season as binge-worthy. NME and the Hollywood Reporter also mention new additions, including Neve Campbell and Ambika Mod, as the cast expands.
While most outlets largely align that season two delivers strong entertainment value, some coverage varies in emphasis: some focus on pacing and wit, others foreground the implausibility of the plotting or the bittersweet, poignant tone.
