Early reviews for the third season of HBO's Euphoria paint a bleak picture, with critics widely labeling the latest installment an "unhinged disaster." The season, which includes a five-year time jump, has been met with significant backlash, particularly concerning its narrative direction and perceived loss of its signature edge. Early critical consensus on Rotten Tomatoes shows a stark divide, with some outlets reporting a dismal 53 percent approval rating based on 19 reviews, while others cite an abysmal 19 percent out of 106 reviews.
A Disjointed Return
The newly released episodes, screened for press ahead of the official premiere, appear to have left many reviewers unimpressed. Critiques highlight a show that has become "completely airless," with characters seemingly stuck in outdated thought patterns despite their advanced age. The overarching sentiment suggests the series is struggling to justify its existence beyond visual spectacle, presenting a "glossy, nihilistic hangover." Some critics point to specific character arcs, such as Nate's subdued reaction to public embarrassment, as departures from established personas, raising questions about the show's ability to maintain its core identity.
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Narrative Drift and Aesthetic Concerns
The decision to shift the aesthetic to embrace the "American West" has been met with mixed reactions. While some see it as an effective, if "tacky and bleak," reflection of the show's established tone, others view it as a superficial stylistic choice. Comparisons have been drawn to historical movements like Manifest Destiny and the California gold rush, framed through the lens of influencer culture and the OnlyFans boom, a framing some find tenuous. The series' exploration of themes like drug dealing, sex, and death, while previously central, is now being perceived by some as pedantic, particularly with the added layer of adult characters.
Showrunner's Shadow and Audience Reception
This critical reception follows a pattern for showrunner Sam Levinson, whose previous project, HBO's The Idol, also garnered significant negative reviews. The consistent critical drubbing has reignited discussions around Levinson's directorial approach and his past work, including his "nepo baby" status as the son of director Barry Levinson. While the show boasts a star-studded cast including Zendaya, Sydney Sweeney, and Jacob Elordi, their performances are not enough to salvage the season for many. The audience score, however, has shown a slightly more forgiving, though still lukewarm, reception, with one report indicating a 41 percent score on Rotten Tomatoes.
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Background: The Levinson Legacy
Sam Levinson's career has been marked by ambitious, often controversial, projects. His directorial debut, Assassination of a High School President (2008), explored teen angst. However, it was Euphoria that propelled him into mainstream prominence, launching the careers of its young cast. His collaborations on The Idol with The Weeknd and Reza Fahim proved to be another point of contention, with the series facing widespread criticism. The critical reception of Euphoria Season 3, coupled with the earlier issues surrounding The Idol, has intensified scrutiny on Levinson's creative vision and its reception within the industry.
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