“House of Cards” season three focuses more on relationships than politics.
By Amanda Maile
The third season of “House of Cards” premiered on Netflix on Feb. 27, allowing fans to binge all 13 episodes in a mere 13 hours. This installment of the show provides a clear contrast from the prior two. We are used to seeing the main character, Frank Underwood (Kevin Spacey), utilize his position of power and political influence for his own personal gain. Underwood has successfully lied, murdered and had a president impeached, all without any repercussions. And, while Frank said the only rule is “hunt, or be hunted,” season three shows that even he is not safe from the latter.
Season 3 follows Frank through the beginning of his presidency, his efforts to establish a new jobs program throughout the United States and his struggle with Russian President Petrov (Lars Mikkelsen). Frank’s wife, Claire (Robin Wright), assumes more responsibility not only as First Lady, but also as a United Nations Ambassador. However, the Underwoods’ biggest battle this season has nothing to do with politics or diplomacy, but rather the strength and stability of their own relationship.
“House of Cards” has transformed from a ruthless and shocking depiction of political life to a soap opera starring our favorite couple: Frank and Claire. The Underwoods’ marriage showed its superiority over jealousy, lying and even cheating. Frank and Claire’s union was what made them strong, but Season 3 shows the opposite. In Frank’s eyes, Claire’s actions undermine his authority, and Claire feels as though Frank overshadows her and obstructs her from getting what she wants. We are left unsure whether or not the Underwoods will overcome this rift.
The show no longer focuses on politics. It has taken a turn and wants to show the complications of Frank and Claire’s marriage. While we have seen such scenarios in prior seasons, the Underwoods’ relationship was more of a side plot rather than the main story arc. Frank and Claire are unrecognizable from the first two seasons. Since when has Frank cared about the greater good of the people or Claire worried about her marriage? The changes in these characters are far too abrupt.
So, was season 3 of “House of Cards” a flop? Not completely. Kevin Spacey’s and Robin Wright’s acting are still spot on, and it was interesting to see things from Claire’s point of view for once. The show’s cinematography makes it feel like you are watching a movie rather than a thirteen-episode season. Furthermore, we are introduced to new characters such as Heather Dunbar (Elizabeth Marvel), Thomas Yates (Paul Sparks) and Viktor Petrov, whose stories have only just started to unfold. Surely we can expect them to reappear in Season 4.
Season 3 is definitely not as good as Season 1 and 2. But, will the show get better next season? I’m not so sure, and as Frank says, “You might think that; I couldn’t possibly comment.”
