The Keira Knightley- and Ben Whishaw-led Netflix series eventually snares its protagonists in a traditional espionage plot—but it’s most interested in their friendship.

A spy in trouble and an assassin getting heartburn about his work are well-worn tropes in the espionage genre, and “Black Doves” is not particularly interested in reinventing the form. And it has its weak spots: an overreliance on gauzy flashbacks,

"Here's to Black Doves season one," Knightley toasts as she raises a glass of champagne with her fellow actor, Whishaw noti

We already know, it turns out. While it may not be very well-broadcast, Black Doves was already greenlit for season 2 before season 1 was released, indicating confidence from Netflix that it was going to be a hit, which it was. This was all the way back in August, and that does not happen very often. They must have really liked what they saw.

From the creator of “Giri/Haji” comes an international-intrigue drama full of smarts, thrills and great performances by Keira Knightley and Ben Whishaw.

Black Doves, the highly-rated Keira Knightley spy thriller spent a week at #1 on Netflix’s Top 10 list and has already secured a second season. Now, it’s gracefully stepping down in favor of a new show at the top of the list, albeit a comedy special, not a scripted series.

Netflix spy thriller Black Doves to return for second series - The first series saw Keira Knightley and Ben Whishaw’s characters investigate a murder.

Black Doves will return to Netflix for a second series, starring Keira Knightley, Sarah Lancashire and Ben Whishaw.