Ep 1. Revival

Set in a dystopian future Sydney, Cleverman season 2 returns with its first episode titled "Revival". This episode opens with the world's first ever Cleverman, Koen West, coming back to life. Koen's return has triggered hope amongst Hairy and human populations, who are looking for a leader to unite them and seek justice for the atrocities committed against the Hairies.

Koen's brother, Waruu, who has been leading the fight against remaining humans, is hesitant to believe in Koen's revival. Despite this, his mother, cultural expert, and adviser, Aunty Linda, sees this as a sign of hope. She sees Koen as the answer to the prayers of those who have been seeking a leader for a long time. An air of uncertainty surrounds Koen's return, with many questions unanswered. Is Koen really back? And if he is back, does he have the powers of a Cleverman?

Meanwhile, there is tension between the Hairies and humans. The Hairies have been contained and are now living behind a huge steel wall. The wall serves as a barrier to keep them in, but also keeps the humans safe from the Hairies. Both sides share a mutual distrust and hate. For the humans, Hairies are violent creatures, who have no place in civil society. The Hairies believe that humans are the ones who have been oppressing and exploiting them for ages. Amidst this tension, Koen's return has come as a beam of light, a hope that good can prevail over evil.

The episode takes us on a ride as we see Koen struggling to accept his gifts as a Cleverman. He is haunted by the past, and there are flashbacks to his time in the Dreaming, where his guilt and shame hold him back from fully embracing his powers. Koen's journey is one that not only tests his beliefs but also his strength in the face of danger. He is up against a powerful enemy, the Namorrodor, a monster that was created when the Hairies were first being genetically modified.

The Namorrodor is a formidable foe, and Koen's powers as a Cleverman are put to the test when he faces it. But he is not alone in his struggles. He is aided by his friends and allies, who have always stood by him through the darkest of times. Koen's trust in them grows as the episode progresses, and he realizes that power comes not from being the strongest, but from being united in purpose.

Overall, the episode paints a picture of hope and new beginnings. The return of Koen gives rise to a new dawn, one where the oppressed can rise up and fight against the oppressors. The episode reminds us that change is never easy, and it takes courage and conviction to stand up for what is right. But it also reminds us that we are never alone, and there is always help to be found in our friends and allies. The show brilliantly weaves indigenous folklore, mythology, and contemporary issues into a narrative that is both captivating and thought-provoking. "Revival" sets the tone for the rest of the season and leaves you wanting more.