By student writer Charlie Jiggins
Ricky Gervais’ After Life returns for its third and final instalment to a relatively unchanged narrative that we have seen for the last two seasons.
Nonetheless, I still enjoyed it despite the hammering from critics.
Following on from season two, Tony (Gervais) is still struggling to cope with the loss of his wife, Lisa (Kerry Godliman).
His unapologetic, pessimistic outlook on life remains prevalent as ever, and he continues to fill the void left by his late wife with alcohol and old video recordings of her.
Although some may be disappointed with the fact that there has been relatively no change from the last two seasons, I think writer and director, Gervais, depicts grief perfectly and should receive nothing but praise for that.
As an avid fan of Gervais’ previous work (The Office, Extras, Derek), his writing talents are once again highlighted in this season.
Despite the fact that the reoccurring themes of the show are melancholic, season three will still have you laughing out loud, but will pull you back in and have you on the verge of tears ten minutes later.
The show’s side characters are given more of a platform to shine this season, with Diane Morgan’s portrayal of Kath stealing the show for me.
Her comedic timing allows for some laugh out loud moments, as well as cringe humour that is ever present in a Gervais series.
Despite all of this, I can’t help but question whether or not this season was even really necessary.
My issue is the dismissal of the character development Tony has at the end of season two. Towards the end of the second series, Tony has a much more positive outlook on life, but season three is a complete switch back to his gloom and depression.
I understand that grief and depression is forever ongoing, but the backtracking of his character seems to be left with no explanation at all, which I understand viewers will find frustrating.
If I hadn’t enjoyed the first two seasons as much as I did, I don’t think I would’ve enjoyed seeing, what seems like the same thing, over and over again.
Do I think that the show could’ve concluded after it’s second season?
Yes. But season three still wasn’t a bad send off for one of Netflix’s biggest hits – overall I still had a pleasurable viewing experience.
