Iyanu 2×01 & 2×02 Review: “The Reunion” and “The Set of Seven”

Even with Iyanu’s victory, the battle for Yorubaland is far from over in season two’s first two episodes: “The Reunion” and “The Set of Seven.”

After a strong first season and an animated movie, Iyanu returns with its second season. Though Iyanu (Serah Johnson) successfully cleansed Yorubaland of its corruption, there are many more battles to fight. The season’s first two episodes, “The Reunion” and “The Set of Seven” pick up soon after the previous season’s conclusion and provide a strong start to the current chapter.

In the aftermath of Iyanu’s battle with The Fallen One, two threats begin to grow stronger and disrupt the peace. The People of the Deep, led by Queen Adura (Faith Gesiere-Agua), have plans to conquer Elu for themselves, and the reactivated technology of the Age of Wonders creates more problems for Iyanu and the people of Yorubaland. Both provide unique challenges for our young heroine, and Adura has the potential to be a ruthless and potentially compelling foil for Iyanu that will not be easy to defeat.

Though Iyanu has become quite adept at using her special abilities, she is still reeling from having to say goodbye to the chance to see her biological mother ever again in last season’s final battle.

Ekun tries to cheer her up with a snowball fight, and the intensifying sequence of Iyanu using her abilities and Ekun dumping an increasing amount of snow on Iyanu makes for a fun opening to the season. Iyanu and Ekun’s dynamic is one of the strongest highlights of the first episode.

Iyanu and Ekun’s snowball fight is cut short by a disturbance in a nearby town. A piece of ancient technology is sparking, and Iyanu saves the town by forcing the impending explosion out of harm’s way. The townspeople are immensely grateful for her efforts. It’s great to see the positive reception for Iyanu. As the People of the Deep begin their planned invasion of Elu, Iyanu fights the general leading the invasion at the wreckage of another village. The fight sequence is exciting, and our lead is easily able to overpower him with her abilities despite their massive size difference.

Meanwhile, Elu continues to rebuild with new leadership. Biyi (Okey Jude) is not enthused about more responsibilities, but still shows off diplomatic skills during a disagreement between Elu’s new leadership. Toye (Samuel Kugbiyi) investigates a nearby ruin and finds a mysterious scroll that will likely provide more answers to the mysteries of Yorubaland.

Though Biyi and Toye bond in the absence of Iyanu, Biyi is upset about her sudden departure without either of them. The tension between Biyi and Iyanu is palpable when Iyanu finally makes her return to Elu. The reunion between Iyanu and Olori (Adesua Etomi-Wellington) is equally tense, as Iyanu is still clearly upset about the information Olori withheld from her. Though it’s unfortunate to see Iyanu at odds with the rest of Team Chosen, the team’s new missions to investigate the sweeping effects of the reactivated ancient technology and to stop the People of the Deep’s plans will hopefully bring them together once again.

Through Iyanu’s first two episodes of the second season, the stage is set for a thrilling showdown with Adura and the People of the Deep, the bonding of Team Chosen, and more answers to the mysteries of Yorubaland. With the rest of the season and the upcoming second movie, there is plenty for fans of Iyanu to enjoy in the coming months.

Author: Jessica Wolff

Jessica Wolff is a graduate of Drexel University with a BS in Film/Video. She has a passion for entertainment and representation in entertainment. She currently resides outside of Washington, DC.

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