Sweet Magnolias returns to Netflix on February 4, 2022. A feel good series centered around friendship, what ages is it geared towards? I’m breaking down all of the thematic elements, including its TV-PG rating, in my Sweet Magnolias Season 2 Parents Guide and Review. Here’s what parents need to know to help YOU decide if it’s appropriate for your family. As always, no spoilers!
Sweet Magnolias Season 2 Parents Guide
Season 2 of Sweet Magnolias kicks off right where season one left off. And assuming you watched the previous season, then you know it ended with one heck of a cliffhanger. There was a horrible car accident, and we didn’t know the outcome or who was involved.
Surprisingly, in Sweet Magnolias season 2 trailer, it basically told us that everyone was okay. Sure there were bumps and bruises and a couple of broken bones, but everyone survived. I was shocked they told us so much in the trailer, especially with such a suspenseful conclusion last season.
A good portion of season 2 focuses on the recovery of those involved in the car accident, rebuilding relationships, and forgiveness.
Maddie (Joanna Garcia Swisher), Dana Sue (Brooke Elliott), and Helen (Heather Headley) are still pouring it out on their margarita nights. They all have different trials and tribulations this season. But as much as I love these characters and enjoyed the first season, season 2 of Sweet Magnolias left me underwhelmed.
Where did Sweet Magnolias Season 2 go wrong?
There was a huge difference in the writing this season. I know the small town of Serenity is located in South Carolina, but I cannot believe people actually speak this way. There is just an over abundance of southern slang…including a slew of”Bless your hearts.” Correct me if I’m wrong though, because I just couldn’t find it believable.
Another issue with the writing is “why is everyone SO incredibly formal with one another?” It doesn’t really matter who is talking or how close their relationship is, everyone just speaks formally. It seems awkward and uncomfortable. If I’m with my friends, I want to speak freely.
And finally, when did Sweet Magnolias become so heavily focused on religion?
Listen, I have no issues with religion thrown into a series, and season one did have it sprinkled throughout. However, season 2 constantly ties every single thing back to religion. I almost felt like I was at a sermon. It was just too much. If this was the theme of the first season, I wouldn’t have any problem, but that isn’t the case.
IS SWEET MAGNOLIAS SEASON 2 KID-FRIENDLY? HERE’S YOUR PARENTS GUIDE:
Although Sweet Magnolias is heavily faith-based, is it suitable for children? Here’s what parents need to know before allowing their kids to watch Sweet Magnolias season 2.
Sweet Magnolias season 2 has a TV-14 rating for language and sex. There are 10 episodes in season 2, and each one is around 40-45 minutes in duration.
The language isn’t overly heavy. You’ll hear words like “Hell, B*tch, and D@mn.” There is some violence with punches being thrown.
Drinking is heavily a theme. The three main characters partake in frequent margarita nights, and they’re glorified.
There’s pregnancy loss and death. There is also a few steamy sex scenes, but nothing overly graphic and no nudity is shown.
I do see teens initially being drawn to this series, however, I think they’ll lose interest. I’d recommend Sweet Magnolias for ages 16 and up.
Overall Thoughts
Although I was disappointed in season 2 of Sweet Magnolias, there were absolutely some great takeaways. My favorite quote coming from Maddie’s mother when she quotes a friend saying, “The speed of life will surprise you. And so will your ability to remember the sweetest moments.” That is a message we should all keep tucked away.
Forgiveness and friendship are the two main themes of season 2, and both are equally important to be expressed on screen. I didn’t feel the season ended with any huge cliffhangers, but it’s not complete either. There are definitely some unanswered questions. If there’s a season 3, I hope the writers go back to the drawing board and take some notes from season one. You can stream Sweet Magnolias season 2 on Netflix.
Sweet Magnolias Season 2 Synopsis
As Season 2 opens, Maddie, Helen, and Dana Sue learn who is in the car. But that’s just the first of many surprises that come out of Prom Night — surprises that reshape relationships all over town. Friendships flounder. Old loves end and new loves begin. Long-hidden secrets disrupt jobs, change lives, and shift the balance of power in Serenity. Everyone is affected. But in laughter and in loss, the Sweet Magnolias continue to fight for what is right for themselves and the people they love — even when those efforts come with a high price tag. Will they find there are some problems not even Margarita Night can solve? Come pour it out and find out.
Jess
The southern sayings/slang is absolutely over the top in season 2! It’s actually annoying and a bit ridiculous. I appreciate the Christian tone but then they’re all hoping into bed like it’s nothing. Doesn’t match up and it is all a little unbelievable to me. I’m suffering through it but I’ll still watch because I’m already invested.. 🤷🏻♀️
Sam
I agree with the religion being over the top in Season 2.
Kami
I’m glad it wasn’t just me!
NanaJane
I agree that there was too much religion and emphasis on the Bible. There are too many loose-goosey sex complications to jive with the religious heavy hitting.