Following that shocking cliffhanger which saw Ben (Justin H. Min) alive and kicking with The Sparrow Academy back in 2019, the misfit family of superheroes finally return to Netflix for even more apocalyptic shenanigans. Based on Gerard Way and Gabriel Ba’s New York Times best selling graphic novel series, the ten-episode third season is set to adapt book three – finally answering our burning questions surrounding the monumental changes at Hargreeves HQ.
After putting a stop to 1963’s doomsday events, the gang are convinced they’ve prevented the apocalypse and finally fixed the timeline once and for all. However, on their return to 2019 they quickly discover everything is not quite as it seems – as they immediately clash with rival superhero family, The Sparrow Academy. With a super sibling problem and a growing concern over an unidentified destructive entity wreaking havoc in the Universe – their arrival isn’t quite the return to their pre-apocalyptic lives as they imagined.
It’s so wonderful to finally have the band of superhero misfits back, exploring the fascinating concept of facing off against an alternate universe Ben and his own famous superhero group. While the thought of ANOTHER apocalyptic adventure may tire some viewers, spending time in this charmingly quirky universe with the brilliantly written characters and their fantastic interpersonal dynamics (and even more hilarious dance sequences) really is just so enjoyable. The series is also superbly paced, with a number of gripping reveals, twists and evolving alliances revealed throughout the ten episodes.
Creator Steve Blackman and the brilliant cast have crafted another compelling tale revolving around another set of babies born on the same day as the Hargreeves, along with delving deeper into the psyche of the engimatic taskmaster, Sir Reginal Hargreeves. And yes, there’s still plenty of unresolved daddy issues along the way! The unravelling of the central mystery integrally ties into a fascinating new location, as Number 5 takes a short-lived hiatus from his retirement to decipher cryptic clues to the case hidden amongst the establishment. However, one slight criticism of the series is the fact that the latter episodes do threaten to stray into slightly frustrating and nonsensical territory – fingers crossed for a season four finale announcement asap.
The cast really are integral to the success of the eccentric show, and its testament to how brilliantly endearing the central performances are. Blackman cleverly delves further into key character’s backstories and powers – particularly spotlighting Robert Sheehan’s standout bonkers performance as an evolving Klaus, while teasing more from Tom Hopper’s loveable lump Luther and his time on the moon. David Castañeda and Ritu Arya’s also add a touch of romance as Diego & Lila, while Justin H. Min revels in hamming it up as the emo Ben.
However, it’s the central bickering-but-loving dynamic of the cast which is truly the heart and soul of the show. This is particularly evident throughout the touching moments the characters share with Elliot Page’s Viktor as his comes out to each of the siblings. The scenes feature wonderfully written interactions which highlight a fantastic approach to honouring and incorporating the actors’ transition.
While the fun 60s visuals and soundtrack of the previous season are lost to the time jump, the wonderful (and ever eccentric) production values, hilariously choreographed dances and eclectic jukebox songs remain. With a brand new team on the cards, the series introduces more contemporary looking ‘superhero’ suits for The Sparrow Academy, along with a brand new location with a real fun The Shining-esque set dressing and evolution. The visual effects continue to be outstanding, particularly in the variety of powers exhibited – especially Viktor’s strikingly blue power set – and the incredible CGI creation of a familiar face…
Verdict
The Umbrella Academy season three is another brilliantly bonkers instalment from Netflix, pairing the trademark dysfunctional-yet-touching family dynamics with fantastic fight sequences and another banging soundtrack. Klaus fans will also have plenty to enjoy once again this season. Who knew the end of the world could be this fun?!
