I had very little expectations from the first season of Drive to Survive. We have seen too many of these types of documentaries fall flat, and end up being diluted marketing material. The first season had its rough edges, but it was a surprisingly engaging experience.
With season 2, the expectations are much higher. Worse still, it's been a fairly boring season of Formula 1, at least at the top. The creators of the show know that well, and indeed, much of season 2 is focused on the midfield dramas. Drive to Survive season 2 is even better than the first season, ironing out many of the rough edges, while honing in on its strengths.
The way the season's structured is brilliant. They really know how to link the stories together, often combining the seemingly disparate stories into one unified theme and episode. Some larger stories unfold over multiple episodes. It's all very well thought out and keeps things fresh over the duration of the season. Even within the episodes, the editing is excellent.
Once again, Drive to Survive is much less about Formula 1, but rather, the stories of its colourful characters. Gunther Steiner, team principal of Haas, stole the show in season 1. He does it again in season 2. The man's expletive ridden rants are legendary, and remain as hilarious as ever. This season includes even more insider footage. This is what makes Drive to Survive different - there's no editing to sugarcoat things. Indeed, it plays further on its strength of catching its characters at their most vulnerable moments. I'm surprised that this season features nearly all teams, and that their PR departments let this pass!
There are plenty of other highlights - the contrasting tales of Alexander Albon and Pierre Gasly, culminating in wild reversals in the Brazilian Grand Prix is one of the best. It's also rather intriguing that in a dominant season, they chose to showcase Mercedes at their very worst moment - the German GP. I suppose that fits in well with what I said above - to build drama, you have to show people at their lowest. Otherwise it just becomes marketing fluff. The episode on Nico Hulkenberg was heartbreaking though, some of the interactions with Cyril (head of Renault) were revelatory. The tension was subtle but palpable. It's in these moments where Drive to Survive truly shines, and transcends from merely being a sport documentary to a deeper story about people's tribulations.
Drive to Survive has always done a great job at being accessible to casual viewers, as well as offer an exciting behind-the-scenes view for the hardcore fans. This season is even better. Will Buxton does a wonderful job in explaining things and providing context most succinctly, while there's more secrets and insights than ever before.
Overall, Drive to Survive has been an unexpected triumph. It's a must watch for all Formula 1 fans, but a recommended viewing even if you have never watched a Formula 1 race. Imagine what they could do with an actually exciting and competitive season!