Season one of The Diplomat was a welcome treat, surprise and delight all wrapped up into one.

But could season two deliver on that heady mix of exposition, characterisation and armchair-grabbing tense action?

Largely, yes.

Keri Russell is back as the reluctant USA diplomat to the Brits and it’s not going great.

In a surprise twist, the British PM is nut job blowhard who thinks he’s above everyone, while at the same time massively insecure. He’s smart as a whip though.

Wonderfully portrayed by Rory Kinnear, who nails the sociopath you want fix/control (delete as appropriate).

His performance is matched by his foil, David Gyasi, who is as charming as he is commanding.

Throw in Rufus Sewell as Ambassador Kate Wyler and the fun continues. And when I say fun, I mean the tale of constant panic, fear, paranoia, where you job is – at best – to keep the status quo.

It’s brilliant, it’s absorbing and while some scenes linger, they do so with intent – it holds your attention. And it feels like very little filler.

Kate’s brash, pant suit approach to politics is brilliantly refreshing and you genuinely don’t know what’s coming next.

The real test will be season three to see if there’s any gas left in the tank. Or if they just go silly. Let’s hope for a diplomatic resolution and go out strong. No Need for a fourth outing.
 
Verdict:
Story: 8/10
Characters: 9/10
Overall: 8/10
Should you watch it?: Yes.
NETFLIX

*all images and video credit Netflix