Review of Arrow Season 3: A Journey Through Action and Romance
Review of Arrow Season 3: A Journey Through Action and Romance
Introduction:
Since 2012, I have been a steadfast follower of the Arrow series. Season 3, in particular, stands out as a remarkable milestone for the show, weaving a storyline that is a blend of intense action, complex emotions, and unexpected plot twists. Below is a detailed review of my experience with this season, highlighting key episodes and moments.
#A. The Calm: Meeting Expectations and Beyond
The episode, titled 'The Calm,' aimed to return the Arrow crew to their dynamic while wrapping up the aftermath of Season 2's spectacular finale. It met these expectations with scenes of Oliver and Felicity on a date and Sara’s unexpected death, which set the tone for the season. The chemistry between characters and the build-up to the next episodes made for a thrilling start.
#B. Sara: A Subtle Influence on the Team
The following episode, 'Sara,' explored how her character's influence affected the team without delving deeply into her personal backstory. The episode contrasted with expectations, focusing on the emotional impact rather than providing a detailed explanation. This approach added a layer of complexity to the narrative.
#C. The Brave and The Bold: A Cheerful Crossover
Episode 'The Brave and The Bold' marked a significant crossover, revealing Barry Allen's secret identity as The Flash. The inclusion of characters from Central City brought a new dimension to Arrow, adding excitement to the storyline. The chemistry between the Central City crew and the Arrow team was impressive, and the episode culminated in a moment of justice and satisfaction for viewers.
#D. The Climb: Facing Impossible Challenges
#E. Canaries: The Return of Sara Lance
'Canaries' saw the return of Sara Lance, played by Caitriona Balfe, who continued to captivate audiences with her fitness and athletic ability. The episode also featured a stunning Canaries fight, enhancing the excitement and engagement of the audience.
#F. Suicidal Tendencies: A Letdown
By contrast, 'Suicidal Tendencies' dealt with the B Team from Task Force X, including Diggle, Lyla, Cupid, and Deadshot. While this episode was generally well-received, it was a letdown for some viewers due to the presence of a Suicide Squad movie. The episode's quality suffered as a trade-off for the movie, leaving some fans dissatisfied.
#G. Broken Arrow: The Return of Roy Harper
Season 3 witnessed the return of Roy Harper, now known as Red Arrow, bringing a new dynamic to the series. However, the actor's contract expiring was a significant loss, marking the end of a beloved character. This development had a profound impact on the show's narrative and character arcs.
#H. Al Sah-him: Oliver's Transformation
'Al Sah-him' saw Oliver go through a significant transformation in his dreams, potentially influenced by the narrative they were feeding him. Despite the somewhat unnecessary episode, it played a necessary role in the progression of the season. While it lacked the intensity of previous episodes, it was a stepping stone towards future storylines.
#I. This Is Your Sword: Manu Bennett's Deathstroke
Manu Bennett's portrayal of Deathstroke in 'This Is Your Sword' was highly praised, with the character leaving a lasting impression. However, the decision to conclude his role was met with disappointment, as fans wished for his return. While the episode delivered on its promise, it also marked a significant change in the show's direction.
Conclusion:
Overall, Arrow Season 3 was a mixed bag of entertaining moments and less impressive episodes. It introduced new characters and storylines that contributed to the Arrowverse, making it a significant year for the series. Despite some criticisms, the season successfully delivered on its promise and set a high bar for future seasons.
Given the connection between the Arrow and Flash series, fans of both shows were surprisingly satisfied. The season was a solid blend of action and character development, and it easily justified its place in the Arrow legacy.