It’s Prank Day at Nevermore in episode two, “The Devil You Woe.” Another murder on the premises stifles Wednesday’s psychic abilities, leading her to Willow Hill to talk with a former friend. Elsewhere, Pugsley gains a pet, and Principal Dort targets Morticia for financial gain.
Wednesday continues to struggle with her abilities as another victim falls prey to the murder of crows: investigator Donovan Galpin. Two PIs killed in the same fashion sparks her curiosity as well as the local sheriff’s, who likens Wednesday as the prime suspect. This death and the haunting vision of Enid have Wednesday working overtime. Despite her mother’s warnings of exhausting her powers, Wednesday continues with her investigation, leading her to Willow Hill, where she interrogates Donovan’s son, Tyler. The two share bitter animosity toward one another, as Wednesday is responsible for placing the murderous werewolf in the asylum.
Morticia, worried about her daughter’s ailing powers, refocuses on her task of handling the fundraising gala with Bianca. Morticia declines the offer to petition her wealthy mother for a donation, but Principal Dort won’t take no for an answer. Holding her scholastic aspirations over her head, Principal Dort forces Bianca to coerce Moritica for financial support.
On the other side of campus, Pugsley and his roommate annoyingly keep close watch on their new pet, the undead teen from the skull tree. The two absentmindedly let the zombie escape, who inevitably finds his first living victim.
The episode closes on a strong note, with Wednesday discovering the identity of her stalker. After Enid and her boyfriend, Bruno, are kidnapped, Wednesday solves a pretty intricate puzzle to release them from a sticky situation. Here, it’s revealed that her stalker is none other than the red-haired student fan she met in episode one. Using her invisibility, she puppeteered these events to grab Wednesday’s attention. With this case cracked, the identity of the murderer remains elusive, as well as Wednesday’s powers.
This episode definitely feels stronger than the first, allowing more space for each character’s arc to feel more developed. While Wednesday and Morticia’s narratives are decent, Pugsley’s is awfully forgettable, offering poor comic relief. Of all the mysteries afoot, the secrecy around Wednesday’s aunt feels the most alluring and will likely have the biggest payoff in the episodes ahead. Also, some colorful cameos from the Addams Family films will excite diehard fans.
Rating: 8/10