The Deuce Season 2 struggles with its "James Franco problem"

Vanity Fair

Franco's appearance as two characters months after he was hit with sexual misconduct accusations "works directly against the premise of The Deuce, which seeks to illuminate the hidden corners of an exploitative, but exciting industry," says Sonia Soraiya. She adds of The Deuce, which returns for Season 2 on Sunday: "It's maddening to watch his portrayal of the two Martino brothers—one an a**hole, one slightly less of an a**hole—because it seems to be a brazen reminder to the viewer that six public accusations have not touched his Hollywood career."

ALSO:

• Season 2 maintains The Deuce's brilliant writing, immersive atmosphere and uncommonly excellent acting
• Female characters evolve in Season 2, while the male characters stay the same
• The two most powerful moments in the first four episodes are about women, power and patriarchy
• Season 2 feels lighter -- or at least has a lighter touch — than most of season one
• Maggie Gyllenhaal is operating on a whole other level in Season 2
• Dominique Fishback on playing a Deuce sex worker: "I don’t know that I’m drawn to gritty characters; I think they’re drawn to me"