Slow Horses Season 3 Review: In its third season Slow Horses” takes an unexpected turn, shifting from its cerebral spy narrative to a spectacle of relentless violence. The series, known for its sardonic, John Le Carré-inspired style, initially revolves around paperwork, a departure that suits its UK intelligence setting. The show, featuring MI5’s least capable team, emphasizes brains over brawn, depicting a human-scaled world of dirty tricks.
However, this season sees a drastic increase in nonstop violence, surprising viewers accustomed to the show’s more nuanced approach. The shift raises questions about the show’s evolution and whether it aligns with the appeal it once held. Created by Will Smith and adapted from Mick Herron’s novels, “Slow Horses” maintains strengths in characters like Jackson Lamb (Gary Oldman), the embodiment of both body odor and mental acuity. Lamb oversees MI5’s expendables, a group retained for messy situations requiring disposable manpower.
The season starts with Lamb’s team sorting through files, a seemingly mundane task that hints at deeper complexities. The slow horses, particularly River Cartwright (Jack Lowden), find themselves grappling with seemingly menial work, prompting speculation about their futures. Lamb, with his slovenly appearance and strategic acumen, remains a compelling character, reminiscent of Peter Falk’s “Columbo.”
The storyline unfolds as paperwork is relocated to an old bomb shelter, categorized in a system inspired by The Beatles. The higher-level files stay at MI5, while the lower-level ones are stored away. Diana Taverner (Kristin Scott Thomas) and Ingrid Tearney (Sophie Okonedo) add intrigue as mirror images and natural enemies vying for power. Evidence of illegal activities in the files becomes a potential threat to both, leading to a complex web of schemes and sabotage.
While Lamb’s character remains a highlight, the other slow horses lack development, reduced to their vices without the exploration of their personal lives promised in the source material. The season introduces dark humor through Lamb’s confrontations with bureaucrats and power brokers, highlighting the pettiness and office politics within the intelligence service.
The decision to inject more violence and action into the series raises questions about its direction. The show’s charm lies in its attention to petty grievances and office politics, offering a glimpse into a world where cover-ups thrive. As the slow horses yearn to get back in the game, it’s essential for the series to explore their motivations. The choice to delay this exploration with increased violence might impact the show’s original appeal.
Also read: Wish Review: A Disney Tale of Magic and Transformation
Our Reader’s Queries
What is the best season of Slow Horses?
Slow Horses season 3 is the ideal show to watch at the moment. It follows a group of individuals giving their all, while simultaneously being more capable and less experienced than they realize.
Will there be a season 4 of Slow Horses?
Season 4 of Slow Horses is officially confirmed, solidifying the show’s immense popularity and clear trajectory.
What is the plot of Slow Horses Season 3?
Ex-MI5 leader Jackson Lamb and his team of outcast agents return for another thrilling mission. This time, they are ensnared in a plot that could reveal a long-hidden MI5 secret in London, tied to a love affair in Istanbul. As they work to untangle the web of deceit, they encounter peril, betrayal, and surprising turns of events.
Is Will Smith the producer of Slow Horses?
Currently, he is composing and serving as the executive producer for See-Saw’s rendition of Mick Herron’s Slow Horses series. Additionally, he is in the process of developing various unique projects.
