The wheel continues to turn in the highly anticipated third season of Prime Video’s The Wheel of Time. Loosely adapting the fourth book in Robert Jordan’s epic fantasy series, the show kicks off with one of it’s most impressive (and violent!) fight sequences yet, quickly establishing just how much more ambitious the third instalment is. The expansive fantasy show has improved each season, and that trend continues in this latest offering – with brand new realms, newly introduced lore and even more dangerous threats.
Following a bloody battle at the White Tower – courtesy of Liandrin (Kate Fleetwood) and her undercover Black Ajahs – the Aes Sedai are left reeling and in a state of political turmoil. Meanwhile, with the threat of the Foresaken looming, Rand (Josha Stradowski), Mat (Dónal Finn), Perrin (Marcus Rutherford), Egwene (Madeleine Madden), Nynaeve (Zoë Robins), Moraine (Rosamund Pike) and co. split up to divide and conquer, tackling three major missions.
With the prophesied Last Battle between the Dragon Reborn and the Dark One looming, the third season significantly raises the bar with more explosive battles and intriguing political backstabbing, whilst also expanding upon the novel’s lore. While the main focus is on Rand as he attempts to take on the Car’a’carn title and recruit the Aiel to his cause, the majority of the main characters are afforded more of an arc this time round – particularly fan favourite Perrin.
Splitting the central heroes up around the globe helps significantly propel the story forward – whilst also expanding upon the world – as the drama unfolds across the Aiel Waste, Tanchico, the Two Rivers, the dream realm of Tel’aran’rhiod and Tar Valon. The introduction of the Aiel and their culture (along with the Wise Ones) is particularly fascinating, along with the gripping trial Rand undergoes in the mystical Rhuidean in the standout fourth episode, as he walks through the glass-column (ter’angreal), re-living the history of the Aiel.
The character is certainly propelled to the forefront this season, and is finally afforded the time to explore his psyche as he wrestles with his fate, the temptation of his power and just how used he feels, with actor Josha Stradowski excelling in the complex role, especially alongside the equally nuanced Lanfear (Natasha O’Keeffe).
Rutherford also has his time in the spotlight as the wolfbrother returns to the Two Rivers, coming face-to-face with the vengeful White Cloaks and a vicious army of Trollocks along the way. The Perrin-centric episode seven is also another standout of the series, as it features one of the best battles yet – along with an excellent culmination to the character’s major arc. Finn also brings a welcome rogue-ish nature and entertaining amusement to proceedings as Mat, helping to add a brief respite to the often dark proceedings.
Another aspect of the series which excels is the exploration of the the complex motivations of the ensemble cast, as it’s not quite as clear cut as other fantasy shows. No one is wholly evil or good – as each player has their own complicated goals, ambitions and morals – especially Moiraine and Lanfear. The introduction of new characters such as the conspiring Elaida do Avriny a’Roihan (an always excellent Shohreh Aghdashloo) also adds a level of intrigue, along with a deeper exploration of the villainous members of the Foresaken and the Darkfriends. However, with so many characters and locations to juggle in such a small amount of episodes (with only eight this time round) the series does – at times – feel somewhat unwieldy.
The incredible creative team have also taken things up a notch with outstanding set designs, costumes and vfx truly bringing this magical and mythical world to life – particularly throughout the Dune-esque desert of the Aiel Waste and the bustling stalls and taverns of Tanchico. The real-world filming locations really are breathtaking, utilising the beautiful backdrops of Czechia, Slovenia and South Africa, along with Lorne Balfe’s epic score – with excellent character themes such as “Rand al’Thor” and “Perrin Aybara” (along with the excellent tavern song “The Hills of Tanchico”!)
Verdict
With greater world-building, impressive action sequences and satisfying character arcs, The Wheel of Time season 3 is an even more expansive and epic fantasy outing, rivalling The Lord of The Rings: The Rings of Power. Fingers crossed for a fourth season announcement!
