We are reintroduced to Alan and other quirky characters. Still not quite the son his father expected, Alan is content to spend his Friday nights watching wrestling on the TV with his mum. Following the sitcom format, we see how Alan is trying to impress his classmates by going to a movie for 15 year plus and how hets the fake id. In another we see how he was thrilled when his detective-themed 12th birthday party, was hijacked by the mystery of a local neighborhood pervert, allowing him to go full Agatha Christie. We also see an episode where the family goes for a holiday and spends time in caravan which feels like hell for both father and the son. Luckily, Alan meets his soulmate – a boy named Neville – who shares his love of mystery novels and has a similar set of quirks. Sadly, there is no chance of a holiday fling between them, as Alan hasn’t quite come to terms with his sexuality yet and is also just 12 at this point. Elsewhere in the series, Alan develops a crush on his optician, fends off a girl that he clearly doesn’t fancy, and also tricks he plays to make sure his nan doesn't leave home because he enjoys spending time with her. Alan’s best friend Kay’s obvious affections are clearly misplaced, the school bullies make rudimentary homophobic jibes and concern occasionally flickers across his mother’s face at her son’s eccentricities. These stories play out pleasantly enough but as was the case in the first season, they don’t provide many laugh-out-loud moments, as I already mentioned above.
Undoubtedly , the kid playing young Alan is absolutely a scene stealer. I was just watching his interview on YouTube and was quite surprised to know that they use fake teeth for him. May god! He is so different from the Alan character he plays. I have this new found super respect for the kid. The mum and dad alongwith younger brother Gary continue to shine, although I missed more of Gary's reactions this season. I wish the makers focused on his deadpan face in more situations. In an emotional finale, we se that the father may finally be going to terms with the fact that Alan is gay. Actually not just father, it is actually first time anyone says that out loud dropping Alan's face. The neighborhood lady continues to add her bit of quirkiness and comic scenes throughout the show. I also missed seeing more of her son who is super cute. I liked how the show continues to show us Alan's continued time with Val in the canteen and her drama teacher. It was lovely seeing how Alan immediately gets fascinated by the handsome optometrist and cant stop talking about him to his drama teacher. Her support for Alan is the best in the show. In two seasons, now we have a good background established about Alan and how he is a bot different and unique in his town. But now I want to see more of a young teen Alan accepting his sexuality and what happens next. It would make for a fun television again. (6/10)
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