Pop-Culturalist.com

Tonight marks the conclusion of American Crime: Season 2—one of television’s most provocative dramas. This season tackled themes of sexuality, economic disparity, and social hierarchy. It’s raw, honest storytelling, supported by outstanding, EMMY-worthy performances. Let’s take a look at ten gripping moments that had me at the edge of my seat.

Note: It was difficult to only pick ten!

“911. What’s your emergency?”

Who doesn’t remember the opening scene of season 2? The sequence featured a transcription of a mother’s emotional call to 911. Within seconds, I was instantly hooked. The show proves less is more. And, its use of subtlety made it more impactful.

Taylor confesses he thinks he was raped

In this scene, Anne (played by Lili Taylor) confronts Taylor (played by Connor Jessup) about the photos that surfaced online and how costly his mistake is. As emotions begin to escalate, Taylor struggles to tell his mother he thinks something happened at the party. I can’t say enough about Connor Jessup’s performance on this show. It’s been moving and deeply personal.

Taylor’s rape kit exam

Photo Credit: ABC

Anne encourages her unwilling son to seek help after the events at the party. This scene was handled with great sensitivity. Executive Producers, John Ridley and Michael McDonald, brought a real-life professional to help portray the examination. I felt as uneasy watching as Connor’s character was throughout the procedure.

Taylor talks about the stigma of sexual assault

Taylor chats with his doctor about his decision to come forward about the sexual assault and how he regrets it. His explanation of the gender disparity in recognizing victims of rape forces audiences to re-evaluate their own interpretations.

Eric attempts to commit suicide

Eric (played by Joey Pollari) feels the pressure of his life falling apart. His parents are in the middle of a divorce and they’re struggling financially. After a confrontation with his brother, Eric attempts to commit suicide. His coach visits him at the hospital where he confesses that he made a mistake involving Taylor. This revealing scene tells the other side of what happened at the party and shows a young man struggling with his identity.

Anne confronts Taylor about wanting to have sex with Eric

After text conversations are found on Eric’s phone, Anne confronts her son about that night. Taylor tells his mother, “I didn’t go there to get attacked.” The scene is monumental because it makes audiences question what is considered consent.

Taylor’s heart-to-heart with Nate

Photo Credit: ABC

When Nate (played by Matthew Posey) arrives home, he finds Taylor sitting on the couch. Nate assures Taylor that nothing has changed. At the advice of his therapist, Taylor confronts Nate. Taylor explains he stopped attending football games with Nate after he shouted homophobic slurs. This scene may seem minor but it highlights the power words have.

Episodes seven and eight!

Photo Credit: Felicity Graham/ABC

I know I’m cheating here. But, these are arguably the most gripping episodes this season. Everything comes to a boil and I highly recommend you watching them!

Leslie Breaks Down

Photo Credit: ABC

After learning that Taylor had intentions of shooting her, Leslie (played by Felicity Huffman) breaks down. It’s a contrasting trait from the character we’ve seen all season long. She’s been a ruthless leader. Her vulnerability in this scene was breathtaking. What a transformation!

Terri tries to make amends

Photo Credit: ABC

Earlier in the season, Terri LaCroix (played by EMMY-winner, Regina King) fired an employee with no explanation. She meets up with the young lady to make amends and explain why she did what she did. During the conversation, Terri breaks down and explains—through uncontrollably shivering lips—that her son was on Taylor’s list and could have died. Regina King is flawless in this scene.

American Crime: Season 2 is undoubtedly my favorite show this season. Everything is stellar from the writing to the acting. I rarely watch live television but this show is one I can’t miss. If you’ve got the urge to binge-watch the entire season (which, you should), you can watch it on ABC or purchase a season pass on Amazon or iTunes!

Header Photo Credit: Ryan Green/ABC
Video Credit: ABC