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When Fleabag’s priest tried to articulate ‘love’ for us, he said: “Being a romantic takes a hell of a lot of hope… when you find somebody that you love, it feels like hope.” The words also explain why we get hooked to stories of love and passion. They give us hope.
Romantic stories have always had a wide audience and that’s what the series Bridgerton, a Regency-era drama, has reiterated with its global success. Furthermore, it has gone on to prove that when romantic tales turn steamy, their appeal to the mushy-hearted viewers grows. In the first instalment of Bridgerton Season 3, which comprises four episodes, romantic feelings and attractions are established pretty early. As the gossip writer becomes the subject of gossip, the possibilities of conflicts unfold. The major drama around it, however, is probably saved for the second half of the series, which will drop on June 13.
The makers have been teasing us with the possibility of “a wallflower”, who is leading a double life as Lady Whistledown, the anonymous writer of a scandal sheet, blooming this season. So, as expected, the friends-turned-lovers, Penelope Featherington (Nicola Coughlan) and Colin Bridgerton (Luke Newton), inch towards romantic beginnings aided by the writers as well as those handling their costumes, hair and make-up. There is a remarkable change in their wardrobe and demeanour. Both of them look more mature and desirable. Exuding confidence, they step out of the shadows of their older siblings and corners of the ballrooms, to take centre-stage.
What’s delightful about their story is that from the very first episode of Season 1, we are acquainted with them as friends who look out for each other. So, when Colin comes forward to help Penelope in finding a husband, it seems natural. The show lets book-loving Penelope take charge of her own prospect of finding a husband, hoping that he will let her be. She even fights for it when the need arises. It was revealed long back that Penelope has a crush on Colin. Gradually, we see Colin becoming aware of his feelings for her. So far, this track has been dealt with deftly, with the fourth episode of the new season opting for an ending that will please the romantics among us.
That apart, there is a new crop of debutantes yearning to add sparkle to the society’s gatherings. There are enough developments — romantic and otherwise — taking place in the life of series regulars to keep the viewers engaged. Known for its inclusivity, the show also calls out ageism and some other biases. However, those expecting the crackling chemistry of Kanthothy — which Jonathan Bailey and Simone Ashley essaying the roles of Anthony and Kate, respectively, brought to Season 2 — will be disappointed. Bailey and Ashley do make a brief appearance before making way for Coughlan and Newton to enjoy the spotlight.
However, the way this love story unfolds is very different in tone and treatment from how the previous seasons handled the budding romances. So far, the story of three other Bridgerton siblings — Francesca, Benedict and Eloise — has been developing as interesting sub-plots. While Francesca has caught the Queen’s attention this season, Benedict is still fooling around. Amidst all the match-making and pounding of hearts, it is Eloise who remains unfazed, enjoying her independence.
Also Read | Bridgerton 3 and Penelope as its onlooker-outsider protagonist: When the wallflower blooms
Even as sparks fly between Penelope and Colin, this season is trying a few other tricks to captivate the audience.
Showrunner/ EP: Jess Brownell
Cast: Nicola Coughlan, Luke Newton, Claudia Jessie, Luke Thompson, Golda Rosheuvel, Adjoa Andoh, Ruth Gemmell
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