In Review: Snowpiercer (S3 – EP1) The Tortoise and the Hare

Synopsis: In The Tortoise and the Hare. Wilford rules his ice-cold train with an iron fist. While Layton’s pirate train continues its dangerous quest for warm spots.

The Story

Picking the story up about six months after last year’s season finale. The trains have separated with Wilfred managing the larger of the two trains with a slower tortoise-like engine. While Layton and a small crew manage the faster of the two trains, which only has 7 carriages. Wilfred is still ruling with an iron fist and has eradicated First Class from his train consisting of more than 1000 carriages. On Wilfred’s train. Everyone is working class and he still has the resistance to deal with, which is now under the leadership of Ruth who is being assisted by Pike.

Meanwhile. The faster of less burdened of the two trains is continuing the dangerous search for warm spots and has seemingly found a few hopeful signs since the assumed death of Melanie Cavill. When Ben falls through a building after having taken some samples from the ice. Layton goes after him and finds a little more than he bargained for when he runs into another survivor. Meanwhile, Alex and Till have to deal with an escaped Miss Audrey who wants to reconnect with Wilfred’s train.

Back on Wilfred’s train. Ruth and Pike have to take sudden action when Kevin and his people find them. An example is made of two resistance members who took an unauthorized hot bath.

The Acting

Alison Wright continues to shine as Ruth gets a  whole new arc this year as the resistance leader. Indeed, Ruth’s character development in general throughout the series has been among the most interesting and entertaining to watch. Daveed Diggs continues to stand strong as Andre Layton whose leadership abilities continue to be tested. I really enjoyed the scene where Alexandra (Rowan Blanchard) was questioning his decision to stay behind and save ben.

Sean Bean continues to convey a sinister menacing side as Mr. Wilfred. While Tom Lipinski seems to be channeling a more sadistic side of Kevin who seems to enjoy inflicting humiliation and hurt on the workers.

Overall

The third season gets off to a strong start and does a great job of setting up some of the issues that these characters will have to deal with in the next nine weeks. I really enjoyed Miss Audrey’s little attempt to take control in the absence of Layton. But I think like most who watched. Even I knew that it was going to be short-lived. Indeed, I think the situation on Wilfred’s train is where most of the drama will come from this year. And it will be interesting to see Ruth grow into her new leadership role.

Overall. The Tortoise and the Hare set things up beautifully and leaves us with a few interesting things to ponder.