I'm just about to reach the halfway mark, but can't possibly wait till the end before writing something!
*SPOILER ALERT!**
*SPOILER ALERT!**
*SPOILER ALERT!**
After finally usurping the American presidency in season 2, the latest chapter focuses on the new challenges Frank Underwood faces as the leader of the free world. However, it has not escaped my attention that episode 1 was entirely devoted to one of my favourite characters - Douglas Stamper, played by Michael Kelly. Originally a more secondary figure, Stamper is now given abundant screen time, following a shocking accident which left little doubt that he had perished. Imagine my delight when it was revealed that he not only survived, but made a remarkable recovery after major surgery and aggressive rehabilitation.
His political career, on the other hand, suffers a huge blow. Previously Frank's right hand man, he is now sidelined and unable to return to the White House despite multiple pleas and a display of unwavering loyalty. But even the most stalwart servant has his limits. By episode 5, Stamper makes his counter move, and I can't wait to see how it's going to turn out.
The new American President has his hands full as well, making executive decisions on a drone strike in the Middle East, hosting a state dinner and trying to outwit a crafty Russian leader. And if these weren't difficult enough, he fails to secure the Democratic party's support for a 2016 run. I believe that bombshell dropped in episode 2. The writers really aren't holding back this season!
While the plot twists are highly entertaining, Frank's responses are what make this series so irresistible. It's easy to label him a villain - and who would blame you? After all, he did become the President through Machiavellian scheming, orchestrating the death of a hapless senator ( a role that launched Corey Stoll's career ) and personally shoving a nosy reporter in front of a subway train ( a moment many of us will never forget ). And yet, I find myself sympathizing with Frank; understanding his desperation; rooting for him to defeat his opponents. Because rising to the top of any hierarchy takes gumption, intelligence and fearlessness. And why shouldn't someone possessing these qualities be in charge of the United States?
But even Frank occasionally crumbles under pressure, which is where his wife comes in. Claire - played to perfection by Robin Wright - has ambitions of her own and takes bold measures to establish herself in the international political arena. And like her husband, she encounters her share of dissension and manages to claw her way through. The marital dynamic between Frank and Claire is both simple and complex. They've settled into a comfortable routine through the years, never arguing about bedroom arrangements or the open nature of their relationship. The complexity lies in their collaborative effort in maintaining political sovereignty - discussing power plays and boosting the other's morale when necessary.
One memorable scene from an early episode depicts Frank curled up on the floor in the Oval Office, sobbing silently after failed attempts to secure campaign funds for a presidential run as an independent candidate. Claire discovers him in this sorry state, says nothing, then proceeds to please him sexually. Cut to the next morning, and Frank is a changed man, full of new resolve to beat the odds after almost giving up the night before. I have never encountered a more vivid illustration of the saying "Behind every great man is a great woman."
The lead characters are what viewers tune in for, but the secondary players are no less worthy of our attention. Russian President Petrov - a salute to Putin - features prominently, as does Solicitor General Heather Dunbar. Both are thorns in Frank's side and seriously undermine his authority. There's really no way to predict the final outcome of these conflicts. I look forward to seeing who emerges the victor. :)
My brain isn't working very well post-call, so I'll try to post a more coherent entry once I finish all 13 episodes. So far, season 3 is turning out to be everything I hoped for - smart, twisted and deliciously sarcastic. Bonuses come in the form of jazz musician Peter Cincotti, who plays himself at the state dinner ( I've met him twice and he's a real sweetheart ), and an amusing epiphany involving President Underwood, a magazine review of a video game, and a job offer to pen a propagandistic book. Made me think hard about my own writing skills - why hasn't anyone harnessed my potential for political agendas yet? Probably because they know I'll refuse. ;)
