Ep 2. Cherry

In episode 2 of The Boys, entitled Cherry, the show continues to explore the corrupt and morally questionable world of superheroes. The episode opens with a flashback to Hughie's life before the tragic event that sets off his search for revenge against the Supes. We see him in a happy and loving relationship with his girlfriend Robin, and the scene is a stark contrast to the violence and chaos that surrounds the present-day story.

The main thrust of the episode focuses on Hughie's continued involvement with Billy Butcher and the vigilante group known as The Boys. After shakily agreeing to help Butcher with his mission to take down Supes, we see Hughie's character taking on a braver and more proactive role as he dives deeper into this shadowy world.

Meanwhile, we're introduced to Annie January aka Starlight, a naive young Supe who is thrilled to join the big leagues after years of dreaming about being a superhero. As she navigates the world of high-powered corporate PR and fends off the advances of her creepy fellow Supe The Deep, we see her idealism slowly chipping away. It's an interesting parallel to Hughie's journey, as both characters start off with lofty dreams of what being a Supe or fighting against the Supes could entail, only to have their beliefs challenged and tested as they learn more about the flawed nature of both sides.

Another standout storyline in this episode involves the introduction of Popclaw, a Supe with the power of super strength who is involved in a dark and dangerous relationship with A-Train. Their dynamic is tense and uncomfortable, with A-Train using his status as a hero to manipulate and control her. It's a stark reminder that the Supes are not always the shining beacons of hope and righteousness that they appear to be, and that their powers can be used for nefarious purposes.

One of the most fascinating aspects of The Boys so far is its exploration of the real-world consequences of having superheroes amongst us. The political machinations behind Vought International, the company that controls and markets the Supes, provide a sharp critique of our celebrity-obsessed culture and the dangers of unchecked corporate power. We also see how the Supes' actions impact not only the general population, but the very fabric of society. Hughie's storyline in particular highlights how the collateral damage caused by superhero battles can be devastating and far-reaching, and yet is often swept under the rug by those in power.

Overall, episode 2 of The Boys is a tense and compelling continuation of the show's exploration of a world where superheroes are more than just flashy costumes and powers, but are influenced by politics, money, and greed. The episode is rife with intricate character development and smart commentary on real-world issues, making it a standout addition to the series.