'Heartstopper' Season 3 Review: Netflix's Teen Romance Matures

Heart stopperThe series of successes remains impressively unbroken. The young romantic comedy returns with a great third season that puts its two main actors to the test. Don't worry: Charlie Spring (Joe Locke) and Nick Nelson (Kit Connor) successfully overcome difficulties with each other's support. It's always delightful to watch the genuine connection between them, highlighted by the animated leaves, hearts and flashing sparks that flutter on the screen. In the eight new episodes, the teens come of age while confronting classic issues that arise at age 16, from college decisions to sexual desires. This all happens in Heart stoppers trademark voice – sweet but never intrusive, airy yet vital and of course consistently healthy.

In the thrilling third season, Nick and Charlie continue to develop as a couple and take big steps in their relationship. But what is crucial is that the text emphasizes their individual identities. So far, the young love interests have been consumed by their feelings. That's undeniably sweet, but who are Nick and Charlie outside of this close bond? What do they want from life and how do their friends and family members take that into account? Heart stopper explores these questions well, particularly with regard to Locke's character.

The actor who recently made his Marvel debut Agatha all the timeIt tackles some of Charlie's most difficult and vulnerable moments in season three. Charlie's struggles with Issues with his body image and mental health intensify, forcing him to open up about his eating disorder to his parents, sister, and best friends. The emotional fourth installment of this season is a poignant, heartfelt half-hour about the beginning of his healing journey (with Nick by his side). The episode sums it up perfectly Heart stopperhas many strengths. With an inviting, seemingly simple and vibrant aesthetic, creator Alice Oseman spins realistic coming-of-age stories from the perspective of queer children – but Charlie, Nick and their group of friends don't just tick diversity boxes. They all develop multi-dimensional storylines that are both chaotic and fulfilling, unfolding over fast-paced 30-minute excursions. And as always, the show's inherent hope is unlike anything else currently on television, particularly in the YA genre.

Heart stopper captures the sublime nature of young love, the kind where even the touch of a hand feels earth-shattering. Losing your virginity is a big topic of discussion not only for Nick and Charlie, but also for Tao (William Gao) and Elle (Yasmin Finney). Heart stopper really gives us a breakthrough alongside Locke and Connor (currently on Broadway). Romeo + Juliet and has Alex Garlands War in the pipeline). Finney shines as Elle, a black transgender girl who has to cope with dysmorphia and pursue her artistic passion. (Finney was a scene stealer in Doctor WhoMeanwhile, Tara (Corinna Brown), Darcy (Kizzy Edgell) and Isaac (Toby Donovan) remain the show's trusted hosts, while Jenny Walser gets more screen time as Charlie's troubled older sister.

While Charlie's family life gains greater focus, Nick must learn to deal with himself. It's a difficult task when he's been linked to Charlie for almost a year since coming out as bisexual. He was so busy helping his partner that he neglected his goals. Luckily, Nick gets help from his aunt Diane, played by the top-notch Hayley Atwell. (Side note: Consider this an official petition to bring Olivia Colman back as Nick's mother to share space with Atwell for a solid British acting convention.) However, season three could have benefited from a little more time with Nick and Diane. But it's by no means a deal-breaker.

If this all sounds too serious, know it Heart stopper is still very funny and charming. It's a testament to the cast and crew that the show continues to lighten the mood despite tackling difficult topics. (The pop needle drops and colorful settings help, too.) The third season also pushes the boundaries by being a little raunchier to fit Nick and Charlie's growing romance. They're just horny teenagers who can't help themselves, okay? Your impulses are not glossed over or turned into jokes; Instead, they are known for awkward, charming conversations. By being so relatable and touching, Heart stopper cements its place as one of the best TV shows of the year. Hell, not even an unfairly brief cameo from Jonathan Bailey can diminish its many virtues.

Heart stopper Season 3 premieres on Netflix on October 3rd