Hell on Wheels really found its footing beginning with the second season. With the emphasis on Cullen’s personal vendetta set aside, Season Two builds on the relationships between the central characters while a sense of permanency sets in.

Facing death after joining a gang of train robbers, the embattled Cullen’s life is sacrificed to the tight grip of Durant by means of a pardon. As modern wood buildings largely replace the primitive tent city from the first season, Elam establishes plans to settle down in a house by the river.

Meanwhile, Lilly feels impending danger as she’s caught in the midst of a lover’s quarrel while the disgraced Swede seeks out revenge against Cullen.