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'Worth the hype': Robert Downey Jr starrer 'The Sympathizer' leaves fans impressed

Robert Downey Jr's portrayal of four characters turns out to be a treat for the fans of 'The Sympathizer'

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Soon after HBO Max aired the finale episode of 'The Sympathizer', fans flocked to social media to discuss its key takeaways and share their reviews.

The period black comedy drama featuring Hoa Xuande and Robert Downey Jr. is an adaptation of Viet Thanh Nguyen's popular novel of the same name.

Park Chan-wook's stellar direction, along with compelling performances from Downey Jr. and others have hooked the fans to the series ever since it made its debut on April 14, 2024.

Fans shower love on Park Chan-wook's 'The Sympathizer'

Robert Downey Jr, who recently bagged the Oscar Award for his supporting role in 'Oppenheimer' has surprised fans by portraying four different characters in 'The Sympathizer'.

Recommending 'The Sympathizer' to fellow social media users, a fan said that it's "Completely worth the hype!" The fan added, "Downey Jr dons bald caps, gnaws cigars to have the most fun imaginable in Park Chan-wook’s inspired espionage show. Believe the hype! The Sympathizer: Robert Downey Jr totally steals the show in electric spy thriller."

ON X, a fan said, "The Sympathizer was fantastic," while another added, "Don't skip, it's incredible TV like we might not get from HBO again. Park Chan-Wook doing another banger show full of incredible performances."

Fans, however, wished that Park Chan-wook had directed the entire series. A fan wrote in his tweet, "I wish Park Chan-wook directed the rest of the series, because all of the other directors were OK but not as great as the Korean."

Hoa Xuande, who plays the role of Captain, has delivered a standout performance in the series. Despite Robert Downey Jr's omnipresence, he has managed to hold his spotlight until the end.

Praising his work, one fan said, "HOA XUANDE YOU DESERVE THAT EMMY SO MUCH."

Another fan added, "The Sympathizer was consistently solid week to week in the coveted Sunday night HBO slot. Hoa Xuande was a breakout star, constantly delivering a stellar performance. Pair that with RDJ clearly having a blast, and the stylization of Park Chan-wook, and you have yourself a recipe for success. Highly recommend this if you haven’t started yet!" 

The HBO series has prompted viewers to read Viet Thanh Nguyen's novel. A fan wrote, "The series The Sympathizer is fascinating. Even if watching it has spoiled major plot points I really want to read the book it is based on, soon."

Will there be 'The Sympathizer' Season 2?

As 'The Sympathizer' concludes with a riveting finale, fans are left wondering if there will be another season. Sadly, HBO has not yet made any announcement regarding the renewal of the Hoa Xuande starrer.

'The Sympathizer' was rolled out as a limited series for HBO. Moreover, the ending of the series provides a satisfying resolution, making the chances of its renewal look slim.

However, despite no official confirmation, fans can keep their hopes up as the series is receiving an overwhelming response, and HBO may eventually consider its renewal.

The best part is that Viet Thanh Nguyen's novel already has a sequel, providing Park Chan-wook with enough material to continue Captain's story.

The sequel to the 2015 novel 'The Sympathizer' is titled 'The Committed', released in 2021. It showcases the protagonist's arrival in Paris, where he joins the criminal world while dealing with the traumas of the Vietnam War.

'The Sympathizer' trailer

'The Sympathizer' is available to stream on Max.