Utopia
This conspiracy theory series revolves around an elusive comic book, which is full of clues about a diabolical scheme. As is typical for this genre, a ragtag group of comic nerds sets out to solve the mysteries and save the world. Star turns from John Cusak as the innovative leader of a drug conglomerate and Rainn Wilson as a frustrated scientist who may have the clue to the puzzle. The first 2 episodes are chocked with quickly-dispatched killings and one nasty torture sequence. After that, it’s more about the intrigue and interactions between the various personalities. While the plot offers expected twists, the pacing is solid and there are enough surprises to keep the puzzle interesting. (The final episode left it obviously open for another season.) 
(4 / 5)
The Boys (Season 2)
The first season set up the league of chemically-created superheroes, supported by the marketing power of a large conglomerate. Some of the good guys aren’t very good, which added some depth. And what evil empire would be complete without yet another ragtag gang out to expose its secrets? Season 2 focuses even more on this group, while expanding the personal interactions between the “supes.” There are occasional cool effects, but the conspiracy theory drags down the action with too much talk and frankly, I didn’t care much about the people. 
(2.5 / 5)