By SAM CROCKER
Managing Editor
This article contains spoilers.
The show that set Netflix into the programming arena has delivered again, producing yet another addictive season of “House of Cards.” Many critics questioned whether the show should have ended at the end of season two, once Frank Underwood had achieved his goal of becoming president. However, Beau Willimon and his team have managed to create another captivating story with plenty of twists and turns.
In the first two series, Frank and Carrie Underwood had a goal to conquer; a higher position to fill. In season three, with approval ratings worryingly low and elections just a year away, the Underwoods must battle to raise their reputation and convince the American people that Frank Underwood is worthy of more than just a default presidency. On top of this, Underwood must tackle some particularly tricky crises as president, at home and abroad.
As with the previous seasons, “House of Cards” season three is fluffed with a number of intertwining subplots. Carrie Underwood, unsatisfied with the role of first lady, decides to run for U.S. Ambassador to the U.N., creating tension in her relationship with her husband.
Underwoods’s loyal aid, Doug Stamper, battles to overcome the physical and emotional injuries he sustained in the finale of season two by setting his mind on finding Rachael, who has disappeared, and returning to work for the president.
Many of the issues tackled by “House of Cards” directly relate to current political issues, allowing Willimon to remain a shrewd political observer by framing the story. A large proportion of season three is dedicated to the enigmatic relationship between Underwood and Russian President Victor Petrov – uncannily similar in name, personality and appearance to his real-life counterpart.
Also, as the campaign trail begins, we see some similarities between the candidates and some of next years’ potential runners.
Compared to the previous seasons, season three is far less bashful in tackling the cold relationship between Frank and Carrie as husband and wife. Frank’s ambiguous sexuality is called into question again, and their marriage edges closer to tipping point after Carrie causes a minor diplomatic crisis with Russia.
Overall, season three provides more binge-worthy drama that provides unexpected plot twists during every episode. The only question that remains is whether there will be a fourth season to finish the Underwood story.
