Navigating the Wild Frontier: A Deep Dive into "Animal Kingdom" and its Unconventional Narratives
The sun-drenched, yet gritty, streets of Southern California serve as the backdrop for the Cody family's tumultuous journey in TNT's acclaimed crime drama, Animal Kingdom. Now in its second season, the series boldly explores the dynamics of a clan built on a foundation of crime and survival, led by the formidable matriarch, Janine "Smurf" Cody. This season, however, marks a pivotal shift as Smurf's sons — Craig, Deran, and Pope, along with nephew J — strive to break free from her often suffocating control and forge their own paths. But as any wild animal knows, shedding old instincts is a challenge, and the Cody boys are far from tame.
At the heart of this shift is the character of Craig Cody, portrayed with raw intensity by Ben Robson. Last season, we saw Craig as an adrenaline junkie teetering on the edge, his ambition constantly undermined by a severe drug problem. "It makes it a constant challenge, in terms of trying to work out where you believe he is," Robson explains, hinting at the internal battles his character faces. "It's understanding the highs and the lows and the need for the next fix and everything else that goes with it." This internal conflict provides a rich tapestry for the actor, allowing for "levels to play" and a complex portrayal that oscillates between comedic absurdity and the grim reality of addiction.
Craig's struggle isn't just personal; it has profound implications for the family unit. As the brothers attempt to operate independently, Craig, the self-proclaimed "loosest cannon," poses a significant challenge. "I actually don't think he knows even how to handle himself," Robson admits, highlighting the precariousness of Craig's situation. Without Smurf's financial anchor - her credit cards and lodging - Craig is adrift. This lack of structure can lead to two distinct outcomes: a desperate realization and a desire for redemption, or a complete descent into chaos. This season, Robson confirms, "definitely both angles of that are investigated through this season. It's an amazing arc for Craig this year."
Beyond his impulsivity and substance abuse, Craig embodies a surprising loyalty. Robson teases that viewers will "actually start to learn a lot more about Craig this year." Often perceived as an "asshole," Craig holds himself accountable to a distinct moral code, even amidst his reckless behavior and criminal enterprises. This complexity was hinted at last season when he offered unwavering support to his brother Deran, who is navigating his own identity. "He's very loyal to his family and surprises a lot of people in that way," Robson notes. This nuanced portrayal challenges the audience's initial perceptions, revealing a character with surprising depth and principles.
The series also grapples with explicit portrayals of sexuality and identity, a topic that has garnered significant attention from fans and critics alike. Scenes involving male nudity and same-sex encounters, particularly involving characters like Deran, have sparked conversations about the show's artistic choices. While some viewers might interpret these elements as "virtue signaling," the narrative often frames these moments as extensions of the characters' raw, unfiltered lives. The show's willingness to push boundaries and explore the full spectrum of human experience, including carnal desires and unconventional relationships, contributes to its "gritty-sexy-cool" aesthetic.
The intimate details of the Cody household also play a crucial role in immersing the audience in their world. The production design meticulously crafts a lived-in, functional space. "The Cody home is a working and livable home," Robson shares. "The bathrooms work. The sinks work. The bedrooms all work." This attention to detail extends beyond mere aesthetics; it creates an environment where the characters can authentically interact, relax, and strategize, even amidst their criminal endeavors. While the house itself is desirable, Robson humorously concludes, "I would be very happy in life if I manage to get a house like that one day. Just maybe not living with the Codys." The idea of them as neighbors, he jokes, is even more unsettling, as their unpredictable nature offers no sense of security.
The narrative frequently ventures into the past through flashbacks, shedding light on the formative experiences that shaped the Cody siblings. These glimpses into their childhood reveal recurring patterns of Janine's manipulative parenting and the early signs of their propensity for crime. Young Pope's fascination with knives, for instance, hints at the violence that would later define him. These flashbacks serve not only to deepen character understanding but also to illustrate the cyclical nature of their lives, where past actions continue to reverberate in the present.
Beyond the character-driven drama, Animal Kingdom doesn't shy away from high-octane action. This season promises an escalation of daring stunts and perilous situations. Robson excitedly mentions, "We were jumping off cranes, we did more stuff on the bikes, which was fun. Just ripping through the streets around there." The show's commitment to visceral realism extends to unexpected and genuinely terrifying encounters. Robson recounts a particularly harrowing experience: "They actually, unbelievably, had us surfing with sharks two or three weeks ago." The chilling confirmation that a beach was subsequently closed due to great white sightings underscores the show's dedication to authentic, albeit dangerous, storytelling.
The series' exploration of themes like loyalty, family, addiction, and identity, all within the high-stakes world of crime, makes Animal Kingdom a compelling watch. Its bold narrative choices, complex characters, and unflinching portrayal of gritty realities solidify its position as a standout in contemporary television. Whether delving into the emotional turmoil of its protagonists or orchestrating thrilling action sequences, the show consistently delivers a raw, authentic, and unforgettable viewing experience. The journey of the Cody family is a testament to the wildness that can exist within the human spirit, a constant struggle for survival and a search for belonging in a world that offers neither easily.