The Witcher Season 3 Review: The Beginning of the End for Henry Cavill

The fog of neutrality lifts as “The Witcher” Season 3 carves a path through the Continent, taking Geralt of Rivia, our taciturn hero, from a wanderer between two evils to a protector precariously perched on the precipice of choice. With a cataclysm of different factions swirling around Princess Cirilla, aka Ciri, the stakes have never been higher and the choices, never grimmer.

Where the previous seasons bathed in the ambient lore and played with the mystique of a ‘monster-of-the-week’ approach, Season 3 dives headlong into the relentless currents of political intrigue and emotional depth. Geralt, no longer a mere beast hunter, is thrust into the centre of the plot, serving as the bulwark against threats intent on ensnaring Ciri for their own cryptic ends. The season strikes a harmonious balance between action, character development, and the deepening plot, leaving the audience thirsty for the next piece of the narrative puzzle.

The relationship between Geralt and Ciri shines brilliantly amidst the tumult, representing the heart of this season. Their evolving trust and bond, especially when Geralt endorses a daring plan from Ciri herself to lure out their enemies, illuminates the show’s narrative terrain. Ciri emerges as a fierce and capable fighter, an evolution that has been delightfully charted across the seasons.

Season 3 also bravely explores new pairings and dynamics. The unlikely alignment of Geralt with the charismatic bard Jaskier results in a fruitful camaraderie that resonates humorously amidst the dark, gritty backdrop. Yennefer’s journey of atonement as she mentors Ciri is another narrative gem, providing an intriguing layer to their characters. However, some subplots, like Jaskier’s budding romance with Radovid, feel slightly detached from the main narrative.

The news of Henry Cavill’s departure from ‘The Witcher’ strikes a bittersweet chord among the series’ devout fanbase. Cavill’s compelling portrayal of the wandering swordsman Geralt of Rivia has become synonymous with the show’s identity, embedding itself into the very fabric of its storytelling. His gruff charisma, nuanced performance, and stoic charm brought the character to life from the page to the screen in a manner that exceeded all expectations. His physicality, combined with the depth he instilled in Geralt, rendered a character who was at once a formidable monster hunter and a reluctant hero with an unseen emotional depth. His departure undoubtedly leaves an irreplaceable void, casting a pall over the season. As we bid farewell to Cavill’s memorable rendition of Geralt, we can’t help but feel a sense of melancholy, as we have journeyed with his character through countless adventures, battles, and quiet moments alike. The question now lingers – can ‘The Witcher’ continue to bewitch its audience without its charismatic lead? Only time will tell.

A critical miss for this season is the fifth episode, which dabbles in a convoluted narrative structure, bogged down by a maddeningly repetitive song. The episode detracts from the typically sharp storytelling, creating an arduous viewing experience. Yet, even this low point pales against the climactic revelation of the puppeteer pulling Rience’s strings, providing a riveting setup for the next volume.

Visually, the series remains a cinematic treat, with impeccably choreographed battle scenes, rich set designs, and creative creature designs that stay true to the roots of the source material. There is a noticeable shift from the first season’s happy-go-lucky monster-hunting days to a more somber, intense narrative, echoing the evolution of Geralt himself.

“The Witcher” Season 3 boldly strides away from the ‘monster-of-the-week’ comfort zone, delving into political conflicts and emotional complexities with grace and grit. The narrative missteps are minor speed bumps in an otherwise exhilarating ride through the Continent. It leaves viewers hanging on the edge, contemplating the consequences of Geralt’s looming choice and pining for the second volume coming July 27th.

RATING: 3.5 out of 5 stars

The Witcher: Season 3 Part One is now streaming on Netflix, with Part Two available as of July 27th.