Tim Burton's 'Wednesday' Returns with Season 2: A Deeper Dive into Mystery and Creativity

The globally acclaimed series 'Wednesday,' which amassed a staggering 1.7 billion hours of viewership, is back with its much-anticipated Season 2. Director Tim Burton and the cast expressed their excitement, stating, "It's a joy to present our content to viewers, rather than focusing on achievements."

On the 11th, a press conference for Netflix's 'Wednesday 2' was held at the Four Seasons Hotel in Seoul, attended by director Tim Burton and actors Jenna Ortega and Emma Myers.

'Wednesday 2' follows Wednesday Addams as she returns to Nevermore Academy for a new semester, facing even more chilling and bizarre mysteries. The season kicks off with Wednesday's kidnapping, as she seeks the truth behind the mysteries. Season 1, released in 2022, became the most-watched English TV series, setting a record with 1.7 billion hours viewed worldwide.

Director Tim Burton expressed his affection for Korea, saying, "Korea is creative, and Koreans are kind." He added, "I've visited Korea several times, but this visit for 'Wednesday 2' is special because it's a project I've poured my heart into."

Marking his debut in TV series direction, Burton shared, "This is my first time fully engaging in a TV series. I approached it with the same creativity I apply to films. The actors are fantastic, and there are new additions to the cast. Working with them was a pleasure." He continued, "Nevermore Academy is a school for misfits. Even among the oddballs, Wednesday stands out. She doesn't like the school but has no choice but to attend."

Jenna Ortega, who plays Wednesday, participated in a fan event the previous day. She shared, "It's my first visit to Korea, and I'm thrilled to experience Korean culture firsthand. Meeting the Korean fans who love our work is a joy and an honor. I want to hug them and sign autographs. These moments of direct interaction are precious."

As a producer for this season, Ortega noted, "Our collaborative relationship has evolved. We had many discussions during Season 1, and now we can discuss the narrative on a higher level." She added, "Being involved as a producer allowed me to engage more deeply than just as an actor. Knowing more about the project before filming helped my performance. As someone passionate about acting, it felt like a door to a new world opened. It was a unique and enjoyable experience."

Ortega described her approach to playing Wednesday, "Wednesday expresses herself straightforwardly. I tried to act intuitively, changing lines slightly and experimenting with different expressions during takes. I usually go with my first instinct."

Emma Myers, who plays the werewolf Enid Sinclair, expressed her excitement about returning to Korea, "It's been about two years since I last visited, and I'm happy to be back."

In Season 1, Enid struggled with her werewolf abilities, only able to extend her claws. However, she returns with newfound confidence and begins to mingle with the werewolf pack. Myers hinted, "Enid is having fun and has gained confidence."

Discussing her character's development, Myers said, "A lot happened in Season 1. Enid's awakening as a werewolf was a significant change. The story continues from there, and it's natural for all characters to grow in Season 2." She added, "There are many changes in Part 2 of Season 2, but that's all I can say for now."

Despite not reaching the top spot in Korea during Season 1, Ortega emphasized, "It's not good to view films or dramas as a competition. I'm happy to share this TV show with Korean fans and thrilled that it's being watched globally. It's not about the numbers but about touching people's hearts." Director Burton added, "The success of Season 1 was enjoyable. I've experienced both failure and success, and I'm delighted that people worldwide watched our carefully crafted work. I don't see it as a competition."

Ortega also mentioned an episode that might interest Korean fans, "Episode 6 of Season 2 focuses on Enid. Emma Myers loves Korean culture, so a Korean song is included, which I think Korean fans will enjoy."

The series incorporates stop-motion animation in some scenes. Burton explained, "I love that form of animation. It has a traditional feel and is visually and tactilely alive. Stop-motion animation is true creation, involving the human touch. I want to carry that spirit forward."

Burton expressed his affection for the actors, calling them the source of his creativity. "During Season 1, we met via Zoom and couldn't see each other. This time, visiting the set daily was inspiring. The actors are like family, and they motivate me to shoot with enthusiasm. They are the source of my creativity."

'Wednesday 2' premiered Part 1 on the 8th of this month, with Part 2 set to release on the 3rd of next month.

Kim Ji-won, TenAsia Reporter bella@tenasia.co.kr