The first two seasons of Fargo were great as their own separate stories. But how long can an anthology show keep being one of the best shows on television? Well, if the premiere is any indication, season 3 could be just as good. 'The Law of Vacant Places' is filled with the one thing that made the first two seasons so special, subtle tension.
Tension isn't the only thing Noah Hawley recaptured, though. The gorgeous cinematography, haunting but timely music, and likable quirky characters are all back this season. This is about as good of a start to a season as you can get.
Much like previous installments of Fargo, the various characters interact in the most random and unlikely way possible. The important thing is that they are set up properly to ensure those random interactions are effective. As per usual, the entire cast exudes charisma and chemistry. Perhaps unsurprisingly, Ewan McGregor is the most memorable as both Emit and Ray Stussy. However, Scoot McNairy and David Thewlis give McGregor a run for his money. Thewlis is deceptively entertaining as the mysterious investor in Emit's firm, and McNairy gives a short-lived but nonetheless important turn as Ray's parolee.
We all knew the episode had to end with a surprising death that would set up the investigation for the rest of the season. I wasn't surprised to see Gloria's (Carrie Coon) father bite the dust, but I was stunned to see Maurice bite it as well. Not only is McNairy a well-respected actor but he could have been beneficial to this season overall. Unfortunately, it doesn't look like we're going to get much more of him, if at all.
Overall, this episode was a treat. It's been a long time since season 2 ended, but it was well worth the wait. If the rest of the season can continue the impeccable tension and stakes, then I think we're in for another winner.
+Music
+Unique performances
+Element of surprise
9.5/10
Tension isn't the only thing Noah Hawley recaptured, though. The gorgeous cinematography, haunting but timely music, and likable quirky characters are all back this season. This is about as good of a start to a season as you can get.
Much like previous installments of Fargo, the various characters interact in the most random and unlikely way possible. The important thing is that they are set up properly to ensure those random interactions are effective. As per usual, the entire cast exudes charisma and chemistry. Perhaps unsurprisingly, Ewan McGregor is the most memorable as both Emit and Ray Stussy. However, Scoot McNairy and David Thewlis give McGregor a run for his money. Thewlis is deceptively entertaining as the mysterious investor in Emit's firm, and McNairy gives a short-lived but nonetheless important turn as Ray's parolee.
We all knew the episode had to end with a surprising death that would set up the investigation for the rest of the season. I wasn't surprised to see Gloria's (Carrie Coon) father bite the dust, but I was stunned to see Maurice bite it as well. Not only is McNairy a well-respected actor but he could have been beneficial to this season overall. Unfortunately, it doesn't look like we're going to get much more of him, if at all.
Overall, this episode was a treat. It's been a long time since season 2 ended, but it was well worth the wait. If the rest of the season can continue the impeccable tension and stakes, then I think we're in for another winner.
+Music
+Unique performances
+Element of surprise
9.5/10