Dearest gentle readers,
It appears the glittering world of the ton is not immune to the occasional dulling of its sheen. With great anticipation, the third season of Bridgerton was welcomed, yet whispers around Mayfair suggest a growing consensus: the once brilliant flame may indeed be flickering.
Yours truly,
Lady Whistledown
It seems that even the astute and clever Lady Whistledown could not save the dull season 3 of Bridgerton. After the franchise gave a brilliant season 2 and a spin-off of Queen Charlotte, this season truly fails to capture our hearts the same way.
We have seen the series excel in portraying deeply compelling romances that even if you aren’t a Regency romance fan, you will binge on the episodes. Kate and Anthony, and Charlotte and George, these couples shared an undeniable chemistry that was developed through well-written storylines.
With Penelope and Colin, there was immense potential for a similarly beautiful romance, given their long-standing friendship. However, Season 3 failed to translate this chemistry on screen effectively.
Despite the episodes being lengthy, the narrative felt rushed. Moments that could have built up the tension just fell flat. Colin discovering Penelope's secret identity as Lady Whistledown was a crucial plot point. Yet, his reaction lacked the buildup and emotional weight it deserved, a complete waste of potential good angst.
In an apparent attempt to compensate for the lack of organic chemistry, the series resorted to frequent intimate scenes. This approach contrasted sharply with the portrayal of Kate and Anthony, who, despite having fewer sexual scenes, managed to convey intense tension and angst through their interactions. Their romance was driven by slow burn. Penelope and Colin's romance, on the other hand, felt forced, unconvincing, and somewhat frustrating.
Coming to the revelation of Lady Whistledown’s identity, it was a letdown, plain and simple. This character, who had become the embodiment of savage wit, incisive commentary, and unflinching boldness, suddenly seemed to lose her edge. The Lady Whistledown we had grown to love was fearless and sassy, wielding her pen, and keeping the ton on their toes with her sharp observations and biting critiques.
Instead of continuing to operate with the same daring independence, Penelope now finds herself seeking the approval of the Queen. While it is understandable that she would need to secure her place in society, this dramatic shift in her character felt out of sync with the persona that had been developed over the first two seasons.
Instead of continuing to challenge societal norms and expectations from the shadows, Penelope's new trajectory felt like a retreat from the boldness that had defined her.
This does not mean that Season 3 was all bad. Nicola Coughlan is especially a treat to watch! It is particularly refreshing to see a plus-size woman being desired and celebrated on screen, breaking away from traditional stereotypes and offering a more inclusive representation of romance and beauty.
Another character that is so intriguing to watch is Lady Featherington due to her victimization by the patriarchy while simultaneously showing her complicity in perpetuating it. She has had to navigate a society that severely restricts women's autonomy, often resorting to manipulation to secure her family's future.
This stems from a survival instinct shaped by a patriarchal system that leaves women with limited options. This role as both a victim and a contributor to the patriarchy makes Lady Featherington a realistic and relatable character.
Now the question is what happens going forward in Bridgerton? Which sibling is next? Benedict, the most adorable and charming Bridgerton? Or perhaps Fransesca shall get her own season?
Either way, we hope it is handled with care and finesse. As there are hints of different sexual orientations to be explored, it should be done with utmost sensitivity. In today’s media, queer characters often feel forced and unconvincing, used merely as token diversity. May it be a thoughtfully integrated arc, similar to what we saw in the Queen Charlotte series with Brimsley and Reynolds.