In Season 2 of Netflix’s “Wednesday,” the creators delve into the enigmatic character of Thing, enriching the lore of the Addams family in an engaging way. Thing, a beloved disembodied hand portrayed by Victor Dorobantu, has been a supporting character from the very beginning, and the latest season adds layers to his backstory that fans have long pondered.
### The Significance of Thing
The character of Thing is not merely a novelty but a vital part of the narrative structure of “Wednesday.” In Season 1, viewers witnessed the depth of trust the Addams family places in this unique creature, especially when Gomez Addams, played by Luiz Guzmán, entrusts him with the protection of his daughter, Wednesday (Jenna Ortega). This foundation highlights the theme of loyalty and familial bonds that permeates the series.
Alfred Gough and Miles Millar, the showrunners, recognized the potential of Thing’s character and sought to answer the burning question on many viewers’ minds: Where did Thing come from? During a recent conversation with Deadline, Gough reflected on the Blank Canvas the Addams family presents, noting that besides the original comic strips and TV adaptations, there was little established mythology to draw from. This freedom allowed them to construct an imaginative backstory, satisfying both fans and newcomers to the lore.
### The Origin Revealed
In the Season 2 finale, viewers learn that Thing is, in fact, the dismembered hand of Isaac Night, a Da Vinci student better known as Slurp the Zombie, portrayed by Owen Painter. The reveal comes in a series of clever twists that keep audiences on their toes, culminating in a shocking revelation that Thing was revived when Pugsley Addams (Isaac Ordonez) accidentally unearthed him from beneath the Skull Tree.
Millar discussed how the show’s creators had worked hard to drop subtle hints, making the reveal both surprising and unexpected. For instance, the visual cue of Thing’s emergence from the earth was strategically redesigned for the show’s opening credits to avoid giving away the secret too easily, showcasing their commitment to storytelling.
### The Emotional Climax
The emotional crux of Season 2 rests on the intense bond shared between Thing and the Addams family, particularly Wednesday. In the finale, Thing leaps into action to save her from the clutches of Isaac, demonstrating his loyalty and protective instinct once again. This moment exemplifies both heroism and the deep connection that exists within the Addams family, even in the face of danger.
The climax also serves as a pivotal moment for both Thing and Gomez, revealing a shared backstory of sacrifice and loss of powers. Morticia, played by Catherine Zeta-Jones, cuts Thing from Isaac, not just to save her family, but because Isaac had previously attempted something nefarious with Gomez. This newfound understanding of their history adds depth to both Gomez’s character and the storyline, as viewers realize how intertwined their fates truly are.
### Exploring Themes of Outcast and Belonging
One of the central themes in “Wednesday” is the idea of being an outcast. Millar remarked on how this theme drove several narrative decisions in crafting the character arcs. For Gomez, the loss of his powers is a form of rejection, and this moment of vulnerability connects him deeply with Thing’s origins. While lacking a traditional outcast ability, his love for Morticia and desire to protect his family remain indistinguishable from his identity. The writers emphasize that this emotional complexity speaks to the universality of love, loyalty, and acceptance in all families, regardless of their peculiarities.
### Visual Storytelling
The direction by Tim Burton notably enhances the emotional weight of these scenes, particularly when Thing makes his defiant return to Wednesday after severing ties with Isaac. The portrayal of Thing—an anthropomorphized appendage—navigates the fine line between comedy and poignancy, creating moments that capture the audience’s heart. Gough and Millar acknowledged how a disembodied hand could convey complex emotions, turning what could have been a gimmick into a symbol of family loyalty and courage.
### Conclusion
In conclusion, the exploration of Thing’s backstory in Season 2 of “Wednesday” offers an enriching addition to the Addams family lore. Through clever writing, stunning direction, and deeply emotional storytelling, the creators have successfully expanded the mystique of a character that was once thought of as a simple, humorous side note. This season not only answers long-standing questions regarding Thing’s origins but also intricately weaves the thematic elements of outcast and belonging into the narrative, appealing to audiences seeking deeper connections with these iconic characters.
As viewers anticipate the impending continuation of the series, the heartwarming yet quirky juxtaposition of horror and humor ensures that “Wednesday” remains an enthralling exploration of family ties, love, and the unique bonds that transcend the ordinary. Fans have much to look forward to as the saga of the Addams family continues to unfold, and the story of Thing serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of connection that lies at the heart of this beloved franchise.
Source link
