Alice Oseman’s Netflix original, Heartstopper, has returned for its third season, continuing to capture the hearts of audiences with its vibrant portrayal of young adult queer romance. Known for its unique blend of heart, charm, and success, Heartstopper remains a comforting presence even amid life’s darker moments. The show, which premiered in 2022, has been celebrated for its distinctive elements: neon butterfly doodles, pastel aesthetics, Adiescar Chase’s evocative music, and the deeply resonant interpersonal dynamics crafted by Oseman. At its core, the series is a love letter to all-embracing relationships, anchored by its captivating lead characters.
The previous seasons of Heartstopper were lauded for their light and breezy narrative. However, the third season arrives with a poignant twist, reflecting on the fleeting nature of youth’s carefree days. Oseman brilliantly navigates the transition into the complexities of growing up without compromising the series’ essence. Each season is structured around a significant event, such as Sports Day or Prom, with characters concurrently experiencing profound personal growth.
As Season 3 opens, we revisit our beloved characters, who are basking in the final days of their carefree Parisian summer. The opening episode is set at a beach, immediately evoking nostalgia for the elements that fans cherish in the series. Here, we see Charlie (played by Joe Locke) eager to profess his love for Nick (Kit Connor), who grapples with expressing his concerns about Charlie’s eating disorder. Meanwhile, new couple Tao (William Gao) and Elle (Yasmin Finney) are in their ‘summer of romance,’ yet Elle worries about Tao’s fear of abandonment. Tara (Corinna Brown) seeks space in her relationship with Darcy (Kizzy Edgell), who is exploring their non-binary identity. Amid all this, Isaac (Tobie Donovan) navigates his asexual and aromantic identity while immersed in a romance-focused friend group. Charlie’s sister, Tori (Jenny Walser), also gains more screen time, adding depth to the familial backdrop.
True to Heartstopper’s essence, these issues are addressed without overshadowing the overarching narrative. The eight-episode season meticulously ties together diverse themes under the umbrella of young adulthood’s chaotic journey. Charlie confronts OCD and anorexia nervosa, while his friends strive to be his support system.
. New relational dynamics emerge, adding layers of complexity, and Elle’s storyline, in particular, is notably poignant.
The third season distinguishes itself by refining its narrative style, responding to feedback from previous seasons. Oseman’s script, marked by her trademark meticulousness and sensitivity, introduces clever ideas that resonate with viewers. A standout moment involves a conversation between Charlie and Isaac about “The Song of Achilles,” enriching the storyline for those familiar with Madeline Miller’s work. Another moment of brilliance is Nick dressing as Captain America for a Halloween party, subtly referencing the supporting role he plays in his friends’ lives.
Perhaps most strikingly, the series opts not to disclose the self-imposed ‘rules’ of Charlie’s OCD. This narrative choice invites viewers to respect Charlie’s boundaries, echoing real-life dynamics in dealing with such issues. Isaac’s sense of exclusion is similarly impactful, leading up to a powerful confrontation with Tao that captures viewers with its emotional depth.
Despite a few minor issues, such as the less engaging romance between Mr. Ajayi and Mr. Farouk or initial doubts about Sahar’s connection with Imogen, the season consistently delivers on character development. Each character’s intricacies are honed with care, showcasing the creators’ dedication to maintaining authenticity. The nuanced portrayal of peripheral characters like Nick offers a testament to the show’s remarkable writing.
Season 3 of Heartstopper delves into weightier themes, with Oseman exploring mental health issues, self-discovery, and queer identity with unparalleled sensitivity. Featuring guest appearances like Hayley Atwell as Nick’s aunt Diane, who provides sage advice on handling mental illness, the season speaks to both teenagers and adults. Heartstopper continues to be a heartfelt exploration of empathy, reminding us of the transformative power of understanding and love.
As Heartstopper Season 3 streams on Netflix, it solidifies its standing not just as a queer coming-of-age series, but as a universal tale that resonates with diverse audiences across the globe. The show’s ability to address critical issues while maintaining a hopeful lens makes it a compelling watch, worthy of its acclaim.
