This year, we were treated to an early release of Killing Eve’s third season, a show that for long has been defined by its cut-throat thrills, deadpan humour, and of course, the electrifying chemistry between two sensational leads. After a painful season two ending, Villanelle (Jodie Comer) and Eve (Sandra Oh) are not only left estranged from each other, but also from their own selves. These women are no longer only defined by their intense relationship, but are rather presented as individuals with their own desires and mistakes to make amends for.
It truly is a season of loss and healing, and while admittedly scattered and sometimes slow-paced, the cheap thrills (that we all love) have been exchanged for deeper storylines that navigate complex familial relationships. As Villanelle begins the search for her family, she transforms from our wickedly beloved assassin to a girl who is trying to find out where she came from, who her family is, and what that means for her today. This poignant exploration of her past poses the question: are we an inevitable reflection of our upbringing?
While Eve and Villanelle do not share many scenes together, it has always been the way that they long for one another that is most powerful. Their moments together this season are less exciting, but undeniably sincere, as they fall into each other’s lives under the most dire circumstances only. As Villanelle puts it plainly, “I think my monster encourages your monster.” They are arguably the best kind of “monsters”- vulnerable, brazen and compelling. The fourth season is already in the works and I can’t wait.