Diving back into the dark underbelly of Tokyo, "Tokyo Vice" Season 2's
premiere episode, "Don't Ever F**king Miss," picks up the pieces from the
explosive first season, offering a thrilling and emotionally charged start to
the new season. The episode wastes no time in addressing the cliffhangers and
sets the stage for a season filled with tension, betrayal, and a relentless
pursuit of justice.
The episode opens with the discovery of a devastating videotape left for Jake, depicting the brutal beating of Polina, presumably to her death, on a yacht named Yoshino. This shocking footage not only answers the question of Polina's fate but also implicates high-ranking government official Jotaro Shigematsu, recognized by Katagiri, in the crime. This revelation sets the tone for a season that will delve deeper into the corruption that pervades Tokyo's political and criminal landscapes.
The uncertainty surrounding Sato's fate after being stabbed is a central theme of the episode. Samantha's concern for her friend is juxtaposed with the Chihara-kai's cold and calculating approach to Sato's survival. When Sato is found alive but in critical condition, the Chihara-kai's decision to take him from the hospital against medical advice highlights the gang's ruthlessness and their disregard for Sato's well-being. Meanwhile, Gen's guilt over stabbing Sato is palpable, setting the stage for potential internal conflict within the gang.
Jake's journalistic integrity is put to the test as he grapples with the implications of the videotape and the story it represents. His editors' decision to assign the lead on the story to Eimi instead of Jake adds a layer of complexity to his role in exposing the scandal. Jake's determination to see justice served for Polina is met with resistance from Shigematsu, who refuses to comment on the allegations. This encounter underscores the challenges Jake faces in his quest for the truth and the powerful forces aligned against him.
Samantha's grief over Polina's death is a poignant thread throughout the episode. Her struggle to cope with the loss while being drawn into Jake's investigation humanizes her character and adds depth to the narrative. The flashback to Polina's advice about not missing when faced with a threat serves as a powerful metaphor for Samantha's journey and her need to confront the wolves in her life.
Katagiri's decision to defy orders and continue his pursuit of Tozawa leads to a dangerous game of cat and mouse. The discovery of Miyamoto's body and the message it sends to Katagiri is a chilling reminder of the stakes involved. Despite the risks, Katagiri's break-in at Shigematsu's house and his brutal interrogation reveal the lengths to which he is willing to go to bring down Tozawa.
The episode culminates in a devastating twist when the original videotape and all copies are destroyed in a fire, effectively killing Jake's story and leaving him without the evidence needed to expose the scandal. This turn of events not only deals a significant blow to Jake and Katagiri's efforts but also raises questions about who is behind the fire and their motives.
In conclusion, "Don't Ever F**king Miss" is a gripping return to the world of "Tokyo Vice," offering a complex narrative that weaves together themes of power, corruption, and the personal cost of seeking justice. The episode leaves viewers eager for the next installment, as the characters navigate the treacherous waters of Tokyo's criminal underworld and the political landscape alike.