SeaSon 3 12 monkeys
Time to have some fun
UK Broadcast Syfy, finished US Broadcast Syfy, finished Episodes Reviewed 3.01-3.10
For some odd reason, Syfy, both here and in the States, decided to turn 12 Monkeys’ penultimate season into a binge-watching extravaganza, airing all 10 episodes over the course of three days. Ironically, while binge-watching favours shows that rely heavily on arc plots to compel you through the marathon experience, season three sees 12 Monkeys – previously a show almost all about the arc plot – suddenly discover the joys of more episodic storytelling.
Sure, the twisty-turny, time-travelling conspiracy arc is still king, with Cole and Cassie keeping secret the fact that the Witness – whom the army of the 12 Monkeys is rearing to bring about the end of time – is actually their son, Athan. But individual episodes feel more self-contained, with individual tones and their own beginnings, middles and ends (though not necessarily in that order). There’s the heist episode; the villain’s origin episode; the heartrending betrayal episode; the creepy 12 Monkeys recruitment drive episode. All of which would have made season three a perfect season to savour rather than neck down. Especially as necking it down leaves you feeling a little revelation-drunk. One thing that hasn’t changed about the show is the way it loves lobbing more game-changing info into the conspiracy plot, like an ADHD X-Files with access to a TARDIS. With concentrated viewing, it’s a heady experience.
Thankfully, season three’s major revelation is a sudden willingness to have fun. While the first two seasons were admirably hardcore sci-fi, the show could also be a little overwrought and dry at times. Initially season three promises more of the same. Then the writers unleash Jennifer. Previously, she’s been slightly irritatingly mad; now she’s gloriously, huggably bonkers and the show’s MVP. Whether recreating Alien in ’20s Paris or bidding on everything in sight at an ’80s auction, she’s an absolute blast. Battlestar Galactica’s James Callis appears towards the end of the season as the adult Athan, and he’s… not quite what you’d expect, but totally mesmerising and charming to watch.
Plus, a larger variety of period settings gives the whole of the cast a chance to embrace extravagant wigs and lavish costumes, as season three waves goodbye to fatigues fatigue and dresses to party like it’s 1899.