Netflix’s “Bridgerton” released the first part of its third season on May 16, and it has lived up to its many expectations. From great acting and romance from newer characters to an emotion-filled soundtrack of top hits, it left me excited for the second part.
The four episodes in the first part of this season continue the story of the aristocratic Bridgerton family who live in southern London. Each season focuses on new couples and characters, and this season is no exception.
As with past seasons, the acting from both main characters and supporting roles is extremely well done. For example, the Featherington sisters have come to life this season, adding an extra level of humor to the show. Additionally, the costumes and wardrobe have continued to impress with stylish outfits that aim to portray what was often worn during the Regency era.
Though the plot followed the typical storyline of the various character’s search for matches during the debutante season, I couldn’t help but get excited about younger characters who had developed in earlier seasons and finally rose to the spotlight. The third eldest son, Colin Bridgerton, returned from abroad and became the talk of the town. His sisters Franchesca and Eloise were similarly participating in the courting season.
The show also follows Penelope Featherington, who was revealed previously as Lady Whistledown, the author of a gossip-pamphlet that is popular in the town. This season, her relationships with her Bridgerton friends also develop in new and unexpected ways, leaving the audience intrigued and wanting more.
One of the main characters from the second season 2, the newly married Anthony Bridgerton, appeared in the first episode of the new season, but then is away on a continued honeymoon for the rest. This paved the way for a new story while also keeping fan favorites like Anthony in the picture.
I was partly disappointed by the fact that none of the matches were particularly intriguing in these four episodes as many of the characters find interest in expected partners. Though none of them are married, some of these matches feel random and sudden, making them hard to connect with.
I also particularly enjoyed the soundtrack, which, like the previous seasons, took popular modern songs like “Snow On The Beach” by Taylor Swift and “Happier Than Ever” by Billie Eilish and put a classical spin on them. During the frequent balls, the background bands perform these songs which, adding an extra level of depth and emotion, makes the viewer feel fully immersed in the show itself, as if they are among the characters.
The final scenes of this initial release of the season are filled with suspense and emotion, as a long-awaited match is finally made.
The ending got me excited for the second part of this season as I am looking forward to seeing how the relationships and characters further develop. Overall, my expectations for season three were met, with great character development, audio and costumes, setting part two of this season up for success.
