The Brazilian action drama, “Criminal Code” (original Portuguese title: DNA do Crime), grabbed attention a couple of years ago and returns today for its second act. It was one of the most-watched Brazilian series that year, and its formula blending action with realism immediately captured the public’s attention.
Escalating War: The High-Stakes Plot of Season 2
The narrative for Season 2 dives deeper into the dangerous world of cross-border crime. Following their audacious move to help the Ambassador escape from prison, Isaac (Alex Nader) and his formidable “Ghost Gang” become prime targets for the Federal Police. Their operations escalate dramatically, with “increasingly sophisticated robberies” transforming them into true “legends of crime,” posing an unprecedented challenge to the authorities.
This intensified manhunt will test the mettle of the federal agents. Suellen (Maeve Jinkings) finds her leadership capabilities severely challenged as she navigates the complex and demanding investigation. Simultaneously, Benício (Rômulo Braga) faces a profound personal crisis, reeling from the loss of another friend and the shocking revelation that the notorious “The Soulless” (Sem Alma, played by Thomás Aquino) has escaped from prison. This development not only heightens the emotional stakes for Benício but also signals a dangerous escalation in the threats faced by the entire unit.
The creators have promised that the new episodes will feature many more layers and even more intense, adrenaline-fueled action scenes. This suggests Season 2 isn’t just about bigger explosions and more elaborate heists; it delves into the significant personal toll these events take on its protagonists. Suellen’s leadership test and Benício’s crisis are direct consequences of the escalating criminal activities and the ominous return of a key antagonist, indicating a narrative rich in intertwined character arcs where plot developments fuel personal journeys and vice versa.
Returning Cast and Characters
The core ensemble that brought the gritty world of “Criminal Code” to life returns, ensuring continuity and depth. Key actors reprising their roles include: Maeve Jinkings as the determined agent Suellen; Rômulo Braga as the tormented agent Benício; Thomás Aquino as the menacing “The Soulless”; Alex Nader as the increasingly infamous Isaac. Pedro Caetano, Daniel Blanco, Letícia Tomazella, and Jorge Paz also return to the fold.
The Creators
Heitor Dhalia, the series creator, also serves as its showrunner and lead director, guiding the narrative’s intricate web. He is joined by a directing team that includes Pedro Morelli (who also co-created and directed Season 1) and Felipe Vellas, indicating a collaborative yet unified approach to bringing these complex stories to the screen.
The series is produced by Paranoïd, with Manoel Rangel and Egisto Betti at the helm. Paranoïd is recognized as a renowned independent Brazilian audiovisual production company known for its “bold film, television, streaming, and advertising projects” and its dedication to “delivering visually exceptional creative content.” This reputation underpins the high production values evident in the series.
A cornerstone of “Criminal Code’s” identity is its commitment to authenticity. The series is explicitly inspired by real crimes, and Heitor Dhalia’s team has reinforced this by hiring actual consultants such as former police officers and ex-criminals. This dedication aims to imbue the series with a “docu-drama” feel at times, grounding the thrilling action in a sense of reality. The meticulous use of DNA evidence as a recurring investigative motif further underscores this commitment to portraying credible police work.
For Season 2, Dhalia’s vision reportedly includes expanding the scope of the criminal universe. The narrative will move beyond a single-heist focus to explore the Ghost Gang’s evolution into a legendary criminal entity, presenting an even greater challenge for law enforcement. This expansion allows for broader thematic exploration, delving into concepts like “loyalty, betrayal, and the blurred lines between law and crime” within a “gray moral zone.” Such thematic depth suggests a mature narrative approach aimed at engaging audiences on multiple levels.
Brace for Impact
The series returns with intensified action, deeper character studies, and the continuation of a gripping, authentic crime saga that has captivated a global audience. It stands as a testament to the power of Brazilian storytelling on the international stage, pushing boundaries and delivering high-quality, adrenaline-pumping entertainment.
The success of its first season, coupled with the ambitious promises for the second, shows that “Criminal Code” is not only building on its own achievements but is also potentially setting a new benchmark for large-scale Brazilian television productions, particularly within the action and crime genres.
Get ready for a season that aims to be more explosive, more intricate, and more emotionally resonant than ever before. The code is about to be broken again, and the consequences will undoubtedly be spectacular.
Enjoy the show.
Where to Watch “Criminal Code”
