Almost Paradise Season 2 Casually Dispatches a Procedural Trope

The action-packed series “Almost Paradise” returns for its second season with a refreshing twist that sets it apart from other shows in its subgenre. Starring Christian Kane as Alex Walker, the show follows the classic formula of an outsider aiding law enforcement in solving crimes. However, it takes a unique approach to answer the question of why Alex sticks around to continue his crime-fighting adventures in Cebu.

Motivation Over Sentimentality

Unlike many other TV shows, “Almost Paradise” doesn’t rely on emotional bonding or a found family trope to explain its main character’s commitment to the team. Alex Walker’s motivations go beyond personal connections and delve into something more profound. In the first season, Alex’s past confrontations and the resolution of his personal struggles already provided a sense of closure. So, the challenge for the show’s creators, Gary Rosen and Dean Devlin, was to find a compelling reason for Alex to stay in Cebu.

The Debt to the Philippines

In the Season 2 premiere, “The Magellan Cross,” “Almost Paradise” presents a refreshing revelation about Alex’s commitment. It’s not about who he’s connected to, but rather what he owes to the Philippines. The success of his treatment program and the escape from his troubled past give him a new lease on life. Alex feels indebted to the country for saving him, making Cebu the logical choice for his future. This subtle shift from the usual sentimental approach adds depth to his character and makes his decision more authentic.

Community and Culture Integration

The show brilliantly integrates Alex’s decision into the fabric of the Filipino community and its rich culture, which is already a distinct aspect of “Almost Paradise.” Episodes like “Bahala Na” further explore Filipino history and World War II, reinforcing the show’s strong connection to its setting. By grounding Alex’s choice in the community’s identity, it feels organic and in line with the show’s ethos.

A Team Effort

While Christian Kane is a prominent star of “Almost Paradise,” the series emphasizes the importance of the ensemble cast. Kane himself emphasized that no one is more important than anyone else in the show. This collaborative approach allows Alex to grow and develop in tandem with other characters like Kai, Ernesto, and Ike Ocampo. It creates a realistic dynamic and lays the foundation for genuine “found family” bonds, rather than forcing them for the sake of convention.

A Broader and Fulfilling Story

With Alex’s motivation established, “Almost Paradise” Season 2 is free to explore a broader range of storylines and character developments. Alex’s changing perspective allows the writers to introduce new people and ideas, enhancing the overall narrative. As Alex focuses less on himself and more on his colleagues and the community, the show gains more depth and a sense of purpose.

An Understandable Reason to Fight

In summary, “Almost Paradise” Season 2 confidently sidesteps the procedural trope that plagues many crime-solving TV shows. By providing a genuine and relatable motivation for Alex Walker to continue his adventures, the series embraces character-driven storytelling and community integration. As the show enters its second season, it proves that authenticity and substance can elevate the action-adventure genre to new heights.