Season 2 of How to Get Away With Murder meticulously unravels the past while weaving a new, equally complex mystery around the Hapstall siblings. The season is defined by its deepening character development, intricate plot twists, and morally ambiguous actions, all driven by the relentless pursuit of survival within a legal system that offers little solace.
A Deep Dive into Season 2’s Twists and Turns
Season 2 of How to Get Away With Murder masterfully balances two central narrative threads: the present-day investigation into the Hapstall siblings and a series of flashbacks revealing Annalise Keating’s connection to the Mahoney case a decade prior. Each episode skillfully interweaves these timelines, creating a suspenseful and emotionally resonant viewing experience. The Keating Five (and Frank) continue their descent further into ethical compromises, driven by loyalty to Annalise and the ever-present threat of exposure for their past crimes. The season culminates in the shocking revelation of who shot Annalise, further cementing the complex relationships and inherent dangers surrounding her.
Episode Breakdown: A Detailed Look
Understanding the overarching plot requires a close examination of each episode in Season 2. Here’s a list of each episode, along with key plot points and their significance.
Episode 1: “It’s Time to Move On”
- The season opens with Annalise taking on the case of siblings Caleb and Catherine Hapstall, accused of murdering their wealthy adoptive parents.
- Flashbacks introduce us to Eve Rothlow, Annalise’s former lover, and reveal her involvement in the Mahoney case involving Wes Gibbins’ mother.
- Suspicion immediately falls on various characters, setting the stage for the season’s central whodunit.
Episode 2: “She’s Dying”
- The team investigates possible suspects in the Hapstall case, uncovering family secrets and hidden motives.
- Annalise uses her manipulative skills to navigate the legal system and protect her students, often blurring ethical lines.
- The flashbacks reveal more about Wes’s past and the circumstances surrounding his mother’s death.
Episode 3: “Meet Bonnie”
- Bonnie’s backstory is explored, revealing her traumatic past and shedding light on her unwavering loyalty to Annalise.
- The complexities of the Hapstall case deepen, with new evidence suggesting a possible conspiracy.
- Frank’s role in the Mahoney case becomes more apparent, showcasing his unwavering devotion to Annalise.
Episode 4: “Skanks Get Shanked”
- The team investigates the murder of a prison inmate who may have information about the Hapstall case.
- Relationships within the Keating Five are tested, as secrets and lies threaten to tear them apart.
- The flashbacks highlight the emotional toll that the Mahoney case took on Annalise.
Episode 5: “Silent Night”
- The Hapstall case takes a shocking turn when new evidence implicates a surprising suspect.
- Annalise’s personal life becomes increasingly intertwined with her professional life, blurring the lines between victim and perpetrator.
- Wes grapples with the truth about his past and his connection to Annalise.
Episode 6: “Two Birds, One Millstone”
- The team races against time to uncover the truth about the Hapstall case before it’s too late.
- Ethical dilemmas plague the Keating Five, forcing them to make difficult choices with potentially devastating consequences.
- The flashbacks reveal the extent of Annalise’s manipulation and her willingness to protect those she cares about.
Episode 7: “I Want to Be Free”
- The Hapstall case comes to a dramatic conclusion, with shocking revelations and unexpected betrayals.
- The consequences of their actions begin to catch up with the Keating Five, threatening to unravel their carefully constructed lives.
- The mid-season finale leaves viewers with a cliffhanger, as Annalise is shot and the identity of the shooter remains a mystery.
Episode 8: “Hi, I’m Phillip”
- The second half of the season focuses on the aftermath of the shooting and the investigation into who pulled the trigger.
- Suspicion falls on various members of the Keating Five, each with their own motive and opportunity.
- The introduction of Phillip Jessup adds another layer of complexity to the Hapstall case.
Episode 9: “What Did We Do?”
- The team attempts to piece together the events leading up to the shooting, uncovering secrets and hidden agendas.
- Relationships within the Keating Five continue to unravel, as trust erodes and paranoia sets in.
- Flashbacks offer glimpses into the individual struggles and motivations of each character.
Episode 10: “What Happened to You, Annalise?”
- Annalise’s past trauma is explored, shedding light on her complex personality and her manipulative behavior.
- The investigation into the shooting intensifies, with new evidence pointing to a surprising suspect.
- The flashbacks reveal the depth of Annalise’s connection to Wes and her determination to protect him.
Episode 11: “Lost”
- The team searches for the missing Phillip Jessup, hoping to clear their names and uncover the truth about the Hapstall case.
- Loyalties are tested, as the Keating Five grapple with the moral implications of their actions.
- The flashbacks provide further insight into Annalise’s motivations and her past relationship with Eve Rothlow.
Episode 12: “It’s a Trap”
- The team sets a trap to catch Phillip Jessup, hoping to expose his lies and clear their names.
- The consequences of their actions come back to haunt the Keating Five, forcing them to confront the truth about themselves.
- The penultimate episode sets the stage for a dramatic and suspenseful season finale.
Episode 13: “Annalise”
- The season finale reveals the identity of the shooter and the motivations behind their actions.
- The Hapstall case is finally resolved, but the repercussions will continue to haunt the Keating Five.
- The episode ends with a shocking twist, leaving viewers with unanswered questions and setting the stage for future seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
FAQ 1: Who shot Annalise in Season 2?
Wes Gibbins ultimately shot Annalise. Driven by a complex mix of anger, frustration, and a perceived betrayal regarding his mother’s death, Wes acted impulsively. This shocking act further cemented the deeply intertwined and often toxic relationship between Wes and Annalise.
FAQ 2: What was Annalise’s involvement in the Mahoney case?
Annalise, then known as Anna Mae Harkness, was hired by Charles Mahoney to defend him against accusations of murdering Wes’s mother. While she initially believed in his innocence, Annalise eventually discovered his guilt and tried to protect Wes from the truth. However, her actions inadvertently led to Wes’s mother’s death, creating a profound sense of guilt and responsibility.
FAQ 3: Were Caleb and Catherine Hapstall guilty?
The Hapstall case is intentionally convoluted. While Caleb was ultimately revealed to be the true killer, Catherine was initially unaware of his actions and was manipulated by him. The show masterfully created doubt and suspicion around both siblings, making it difficult to discern the truth until the very end.
FAQ 4: What happened to Phillip Jessup?
Phillip Jessup, portrayed as a manipulative and potentially dangerous individual, disappeared after being linked to the Hapstall murders. He faked his own kidnapping to further implicate the Hapstalls and escape justice. His whereabouts remained unknown for a significant portion of the season, adding to the suspense.
FAQ 5: Why is Bonnie so loyal to Annalise?
Bonnie’s loyalty to Annalise stems from a deeply rooted trauma. Annalise intervened in Bonnie’s life when she was in a vulnerable and abusive situation, offering her support and a path to a better future. This act of kindness created an unbreakable bond between them, leading Bonnie to become fiercely protective and loyal to Annalise, often to a fault.
FAQ 6: What role did Frank play in the Mahoney case?
Frank was instrumental in the Mahoney case, acting as Annalise’s fixer. He was responsible for gathering information and carrying out tasks that often crossed ethical and legal boundaries. Frank planted a bug in the Mahoney’s house, which is how Annalise found out that Wes’s mother was going to testify against Charles. Frank then arranged for Wes’s mother’s murder on behalf of Charles Mahoney, but was never paid.
FAQ 7: How did Wes find out about his connection to Annalise?
Wes gradually uncovered the truth about his past and Annalise’s involvement through a combination of investigation, intuition, and accidental discoveries. Flashbacks and fragmented memories played a crucial role in piecing together the puzzle. The more he learned, the more he questioned Annalise’s motives and the extent of her manipulations.
FAQ 8: What was the significance of Eve Rothlow’s presence?
Eve Rothlow’s reappearance in Annalise’s life served as a reminder of their past relationship and the choices they had made. She represented a time before the complexities and moral compromises that now defined Annalise’s life. Eve’s presence also highlighted Annalise’s internal struggles and her conflicting desires for love and control.
FAQ 9: Did the Keating Five ever consider going to the police?
The Keating Five constantly grappled with the idea of confessing their crimes to the authorities. However, the fear of facing the consequences of their actions, coupled with Annalise’s influence and their own self-preservation instincts, always prevented them from taking that step. The bond they shared, forged in guilt and secrecy, kept them bound together.
FAQ 10: How does Season 2 contribute to the overall narrative of How to Get Away With Murder?
Season 2 deepened the character development of the Keating Five and Annalise, exploring their individual motivations and internal conflicts. It also introduced new mysteries and expanded the scope of the show’s complex legal and ethical dilemmas. The consequences of their actions in Season 2 reverberate throughout the rest of the series, shaping their relationships and influencing their decisions.
FAQ 11: What are the major themes explored in Season 2?
Season 2 explores themes of guilt, betrayal, loyalty, and the corrupting influence of power. The season also delves into the complexities of family relationships and the enduring impact of past trauma. The central question of how far one is willing to go to protect themselves and those they care about remains a constant driving force throughout the season.
FAQ 12: Where can I watch How to Get Away With Murder Season 2?
How to Get Away With Murder Season 2 is typically available for streaming on platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and ABC.com (depending on your region and subscription). You can also purchase episodes or the entire season on digital platforms like Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, and Google Play Movies & TV.