Designated Survivor is one of the most talked-about political thrillers in recent years. The show, originally airing on ABC and later picked up by Netflix for its third season, takes us deep into the world of American politics, intrigue, and the lives of those in power. With its intense drama, unexpected plot twists, and a central character played by Kiefer Sutherland, it has gained a loyal fan base. But, when Designated Survivor transitioned to Netflix for its third season, it raised some questions: Is it still worth watching? Does it maintain the same high standards of storytelling and excitement as the earlier seasons? Or does it falter as it moves into new territory?
In this article, we will delve into whether Designated Survivor Season 3 is worth your time. We will explore its plot, character development, pacing, performances, and what makes it different from its predecessors. We will also look at how Season 3 was received by critics and audiences, and what impact the change in network and platform had on the series. By the end of this review, you will have a clear understanding of whether this season meets expectations and if it’s a show worth investing in.
Background of Designated Survivor Before Season 3
Before we dive into the specifics of Season 3, it’s important to understand the foundation the show was built upon. The premise of Designated Survivor revolves around Tom Kirkman (played by Kiefer Sutherland), a low-level cabinet member who unexpectedly becomes the President of the United States after an attack on Washington D.C. wipes out the entire government. The show focuses on his transition from a reluctant leader to someone who must make tough decisions, navigate political intrigue, and protect the nation from both internal and external threats.
The show’s first two seasons were highly popular, combining the high-stakes environment of political drama with the thrills of a conspiracy thriller. However, the series faced a major shift in tone when it moved from ABC to Netflix, where it would be allowed more creative freedom due to the lack of traditional network constraints.
A Shift in Tone and Format for Season 3
When Designated Survivor moved to Netflix for its third season, there was an immediate sense that the show would be different. The show shifted its format, moving away from the procedural elements that characterized the first two seasons, and instead, embraced a more serialized narrative. The political drama took a darker turn, diving into issues that were more relevant to modern-day politics, such as power, corruption, and the blurred lines between right and wrong.
The switch to Netflix also meant a departure from the episodic structure where each episode had a self-contained storyline. Instead, Season 3 leaned heavily on a continuous, overarching plot that explored Kirkman’s presidency in more depth. This change in structure was welcomed by some fans, but it alienated others who missed the familiar rhythm of the first two seasons.
What Happens in Designated Survivor Season 3?
Season 3 of Designated Survivor introduces new political conflicts and dilemmas. Tom Kirkman, now the sitting president, must balance the pressures of running for re-election, while also handling an increasingly hostile political landscape. He faces not only external threats, such as foreign interference, but also internal ones, as his administration begins to fracture.
The season brings in a new villainous figure, a charismatic tech billionaire named Damian (played by Anthony Edwards), whose influence is vast and far-reaching. Damian becomes a key antagonist throughout the season, challenging Kirkman not just politically but also morally. This introduces an interesting dynamic, as Kirkman’s character must confront his own ethical boundaries while navigating a cutthroat political environment.
One of the significant shifts in Season 3 is its focus on technology, social media, and modern political warfare. With the increasing influence of tech moguls and the prevalence of fake news and online manipulation, Season 3 feels eerily relevant in its depiction of modern-day politics. This new direction has led to a more intense, faster-paced season, with several storylines intertwining as the characters struggle to keep their political lives intact.
Key Themes Explored in Season 3
1. Power and Corruption:
One of the central themes of Designated Survivor Season 3 is the corrupting nature of power. As Kirkman continues to climb the political ladder, he faces the difficult choices that come with leadership. The season asks tough questions about what a person is willing to sacrifice for power and what they are willing to compromise to protect their position.
2. Technology and Politics:
In the digital age, technology has become an undeniable force in politics. From social media manipulation to cybersecurity threats, Season 3 dives deep into the ways technology can shape the political landscape. The show introduces the character of Damian, a tech mogul with his fingers in many political pies, adding a modern, Silicon Valley twist to the narrative.
3. The Ethics of Leadership:
Throughout the season, Kirkman is forced to make increasingly difficult decisions that test his morality and ethics. With the pressure mounting from all sides, he struggles to maintain his integrity while facing pressure from both political opponents and allies.
4. Election Campaigns and Political Rivalries:
The backdrop of the election campaign brings a new level of intensity to Season 3. Kirkman must navigate the complexities of running for re-election, balancing personal values with political strategy. This adds a layer of suspense, as the fate of the country may rest on the outcome of the election.
Character Development in Season 3
Kiefer Sutherland’s portrayal of Tom Kirkman remains a highlight of Designated Survivor throughout Season 3. As Kirkman continues his journey from an unlikely leader to a seasoned president, Sutherland does an excellent job of showing the character’s internal struggle with power, responsibility, and personal ethics. His performance remains grounded and relatable, even as Kirkman faces increasingly dramatic challenges.
Other key characters, such as Seth Wright (Kal Penn), Aaron Shore (Adan Canto), and Emily Rhodes (Italia Ricci), also see significant development in Season 3. Seth’s role as Kirkman’s press secretary becomes even more vital as the media landscape shifts, while Aaron faces a moral crossroads in his relationship with the president. Emily continues to serve as Kirkman’s advisor, but her own ambitions and personal struggles add depth to her character.
The addition of Damian as a main antagonist adds a new dynamic to the series. Played by Anthony Edwards, Damian is a tech mogul with a vast amount of influence, and he challenges Kirkman both politically and personally. His character brings an edge to the season, making the stakes even higher for Kirkman and his team.
The Pacing and Structure of Season 3
One of the noticeable differences in Season 3 is the pacing. With the switch to Netflix, all ten episodes were released at once, allowing for a binge-watching experience. This shift in format means that the season moves at a faster pace, with more intense storylines and fewer filler episodes. Some viewers may find the pacing too fast, while others will appreciate the streamlined storytelling.
The episodes feel more connected than before, with cliffhangers leading directly into the next plot point. The tension builds steadily throughout the season, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. However, some may feel that the show sacrifices the depth and development that the first two seasons provided for the sake of a quicker narrative.
Is Designated Survivor Season 3 Worth Watching?
After considering the themes, character development, pacing, and overall shift in tone, the question remains: Is Designated Survivor Season 3 worth watching?
For those who enjoyed the earlier seasons, the transition to Netflix might feel jarring at first. The show’s shift to a more serialized structure means that Season 3 can feel like a departure from the previous seasons’ episodic nature. However, for those who enjoy political thrillers with a modern twist, Season 3 offers a fresh take on the genre, exploring relevant issues like social media manipulation, political corruption, and the ethical dilemmas of leadership.
Kiefer Sutherland’s performance remains one of the strongest aspects of the show, and the addition of a new antagonist in Damian provides a welcome change. The season’s exploration of power, corruption, and the role of technology in modern politics adds a contemporary edge, making it feel highly relevant to today’s political climate.
However, the faster pacing and more intense storyline might alienate viewers who preferred the slower, more deliberate pace of earlier seasons. Additionally, some may find that the show’s shift towards darker, more cynical themes doesn’t provide the same balance of hope and idealism that the first two seasons did.
Conclusion
Ultimately, whether Designated Survivor Season 3 is worth watching depends on your personal preferences and what you enjoy in a political drama. If you’re looking for a show that is fast-paced, morally complex, and relevant to the modern political landscape, then Season 3 will likely be worth your time. However, if you prefer the slower, more character-driven storytelling of the earlier seasons, the transition to Netflix might be a bit disappointing.
For fans of political thrillers who appreciate a darker, more intense narrative, Designated Survivor Season 3 offers plenty of suspense and intrigue. If you’re a newcomer to the series, starting with Season 3 might be overwhelming, as it assumes familiarity with the characters and storyline. But for those who have followed Kirkman’s journey from the beginning, Season 3 is a thrilling continuation of the story.
In the end, it’s safe to say that Designated Survivor Season 3 is definitely worth watching for those who are fans of the genre. The show successfully reinvents itself while maintaining the elements that made it successful in the first place. While it might not be for everyone, it’s a compelling watch for political drama enthusiasts.
