The second season of the HBO drama The Deuce jumps forward to the late 1970s, a period of rapid evolution for Times Square. The legalization of adult entertainment has created new opportunities and new challenges for its characters. We see the rise of peep shows and mini-theaters, while the porn industry itself begins to shift from a gritty, independent operation toward a more corporate enterprise. This changing landscape forces everyone to adapt their business models to survive and capitalize on the newfound legitimacy.
James Franco portrays the dual roles of Vincent and Frankie Martino, with Vincent now deeply entrenched as a businessman. He struggles to manage his legal bar while also becoming a partner in a high-stakes, mob-backed adult video lounge. His brother Frankie, meanwhile, continues to navigate his own dangerous debts and schemes. Their stories highlight the thin line between legitimate enterprise and criminal underworld, a central theme as the neighborhood undergoes a superficial cleaning.
Maggie Gyllenhaal’s character, Eileen “Candy” Merrell, takes a monumental step by directing her own pornographic film. Tired of being just an actress, she fights for creative control and financial independence in a male-dominated industry. Her journey is one of artistic ambition and entrepreneurial spirit, as she secures a loan and faces the immense pressures of being a pioneering female director. Her arc showcases the personal cost and professional triumph of her groundbreaking work.
The season also deepens its exploration of the sex workers on the streets, particularly through the experiences of Lori Madison, played by Emily Meade. As porn becomes more mainstream, Lori achieves a level of fame and financial success she never had as a prostitute, but this new world brings its own forms of exploitation and personal turmoil. The narrative does not shy away from the dark realities of addiction, violence, and the pervasive control of pimps like C.C., showing that legal change does not always mean improved conditions for the most vulnerable.
Throughout the season, the influence of organized crime remains a powerful and dangerous constant. The mafia’s involvement in the burgeoning porn industry grows, controlling distribution and financing while demanding their share of the profits. This tension between the push for legitimacy and the pull of criminal elements creates a volatile environment, setting the stage for further conflict. The season masterfully portrays a New York City at a crossroads, where money, power, and desire collide on the cusp of a new decade.
The Deuce – TV Series – Season 2 – Trailer
