The Witcher season 3: from Geralt of Rivia to Geralt of Reluctant Retirement? (trailer)
As we approach the release of The Witcher season 3 on Netflix, it’s bittersweet to consider it’s the last hurrah for Henry Cavill in the titular role. Like a monster hunter who’s realized that his silver sword is far more effective at chopping vegetables than slaying necrophages, there’s an undeniable feeling of something missing.
Cavill’s portrayal of Geralt was always like a grumpy cat in chainmail – reluctant, brooding, and somehow still wildly appealing. But now, with the threat of Liam Hemsworth looming over Season 4 like a hunky thundercloud, the change feels as jarring as a surprise portal from a half-drunk mage.
Season 2, admittedly, did not set the stage well. It felt a bit like the whole show was hit with an Aard sign, sending the plot careening off into the wilderness, leaving the characters stumbling around in confusion. Will Season 3 recover from the stumble, or will it trip and impale itself on a wyvern’s talon? The trailer promises us the familiar blend of sorcery, bloodshed, and really, really bad hairstyles, but will that be enough?
The interplay between Geralt, Yennefer (Anya Chalotra), and Ciri (Freya Allan) suggests a shift towards a more domestic witching life. The vibe is less “grim monster slayer” and more “awkward but loving adopted family”. Who knew The Witcher was a family sitcom waiting to happen?
Then there’s Jaskier (Joey Batey) – the bard who doesn’t know when to shut up. With his tunes and wisecracks, he could be this season’s saving grace, or the cherry on top of a messy sundae.
The decision to release the season in two volumes feels like a sneaky move. It’s like a witch casting a spell and saying, “Surprise! It’s not a fireball; it’s just half a fireball.” But perhaps this is a genius tactic to keep viewers hooked, or to buy time while they mold Hemsworth into Cavill’s boots.
For all the uncertainty, there’s something inherently comforting about the return of The Witcher. The mix of dark fantasy, sword-swinging action, and the occasional glimpse of Geralt’s pert posterior is like a comforting bowl of hearty stew. It may not be gourmet, but by the gods, it warms you up.
So yes, Season 3 feels a little like a last dance with an old flame before they ride off into the sunset. Here’s to hoping that it’s a fitting farewell to Cavill’s Geralt. And for the next season? Well, we can only hope that Hemsworth’s iteration of Geralt won’t be too Thor… I mean, sore, a spot for fans to handle.
The Witcher Season 3 lands on Netflix on June 29th 2023, with its second half following in July 2023. Grab your potions and brace yourself for a wild ride.
