Nothing says Valentine’s Day like an acidic political thriller, so Netflix has chosen the date to unveil Season 2 of “House of Cards.”
The streaming service announced the date Wednesday. “House of Cards” follows the machinations of a congressional leader, brilliantly portrayed by Kevin Spacey, his calculating wife (Robin Wright) and an ambitious reporter (Kate Mara).
All 13 episodes will be released simultaneously. Earlier this week, Netflix appeared to be experimenting with the binge-watching format it popularized when it announced that it would offer episodes of the Dreamworks series “Turbo FAST” in staggered installments. It’s not messing with a formula that helped make “House of Cards” addictive company, however.
Also read: Why Netflix’s Future Is in ‘House of Cards,’ ‘Arrested Development’ – Not Disney
To get fans in the proper frame of mind for “House of Cards,” Netflix released a short, black and white teaser video of Wright dragging menacingly on a cigarette. Nicotine dependency has rarely appeared more menacing.
The second season finds Spacey’s character, Francis Underwood, threatened by the president’s billionaire confidante Raymond Tusk (a returning Gerald McRaney) while his wife must confront the increasing glare of the media spotlight. Confirmation hearings, roll calls and other Beltway power plays will likely factor in to the proceedings.
“House of Cards” has been integral to Netflix’s recent resurgence and has been a contributing factor in sending the online video pioneer’s stock to new highs. With “Orange is the New Black” and the revived “Arrested Development,” it proved Netflix could give match cable networks in terms of quality.
Also read: ‘Breakout Kings’ Alum Jimmi Simpson Joins ‘House of Cards’ (Exclusive)
The company does not release ratings information, but some analysts have estimated that programs such as “Arrested Development” have added more than 100,000 domestic subscribers to the Netflix’s rolls.
“House of Cards,” which is produced by David Fincher (who won an Emmy for directing the first episode) has once again lined up some impressive behind-the-camera talent. Among this season’s directors are James Foley (“Glengarry Glen Ross”), Jodie Foster and Wright.
The series also stars Mahershala Ali (“Treme”), Sebastian Arcelus (“Person of Interest”), Kristen Connolly (“The Cabin in the Woods”), Nathan Darrow (“Rigged”), Sakina Jaffrey (“Definitely Maybe”), Michael Kelly (“The Adjustment Bureau”) and Molly Parker (“Deadwood”).
Media Rights Capital financed, packaged and produced the series for Netflix.
Watch the video: