Euphoria Season 3, Episode 1 Review

This is definitely not the same show we left behind four whole years ago. It feels grittier and less sparkly as opposed to previous seasons. Euphoria doesn’t exactly feel like Euphoria right now, and I get why that’s throwing people off.

Spoilers Ahead

The opening scenes almost feel like a Coen Brothers film style kind of movie, which I kinda loved. It’s slower, more intentional, a little unsettling in a way that creeps up on you instead of screaming in your face.

The time jump is a lot, but it makes sense given how old the actors are now and the large gap in between seasons. And then there’s the absence of characters that used to feel like anchors. Fez, obviously, because of Angus Cloud's passing, and Kat, after Barbie Ferreira left the project.

Not seeing Jules in episode one was honestly disappointing, as I feel like she’s such a fan favorite. I did not expect Faye to pop back up in what seems to be a more important role, but I’m not mad about it. Chloe Cherry is weirdly magnetic, so she’s fun to watch. I kind of wish Elliot’s character was still around, too, but that might just be because I like Dominic Fike.

Rue as a drug mule makes perfect sense, but it also really fucking sucks to watch. I do love her arc, though, and I’m really curious to see how this strip club storyline plays out. It feels dangerous in an almost inevitable way.

Maddy… I don’t know. I wish her character was doing something totally different as a career, but at the same time, it feels realistic. It shows maturity and makes her character feel more grounded, relatable, and likeable, which is so funny for a character that started out as a “mean girl.”

Lexi definitely fades into the background in this first episode. She feels more like a plot device again, like she did in season one, instead of the centerpiece she became with her play in season two.

And then there’s Cassie and Nate. They are still insane, but in a quieter, more adult way. Nate has clearly dialed it back, although many have attributed this online to Jacob Elordi’s seemingly lack of passion for the project. It’s like he and Maddy have both matured, which is ironic considering they’re not even together anymore.

Cassie though? We knew she was unhinged, but she seems to be gradually turning it all the way up. She feels so out of touch, almost like she’s playing house without understanding what that actually means. A stay-at-home fiancée influencer complaining about wedding costs and aesthetic details in their home.

Their house says a lot, too. It’s nice, but not nice enough for Cassie. You can see it in the camera, emphasizing elements in their home like the shaggy carpet and outdated furniture. It feels like she’s chasing a lifestyle they haven’t quite reached, and Nate’s trying to keep up with all her demands while running a business. 

I also loved the subtle detail of Cassie having everything Maddy once wanted, yet still stalking her life online and appearing jealous. It’s such a perfect “grass is always greener” moment, and also shows the cruel irony of the situation that Cassie created.

In conclusion, I actually like that this first episode feels less euphoric. Because high school is euphoric in a way. Everything is heightened. Every emotion feels like life or death. It’s chaotic, dramatic, and new. But adulthood has the same things, themes, it’s just heavier with less glitter. Consequences last longer and certain decisions prove that there are things you can’t undo. It feels like less of a drug-induced fantasy and more of a “cleaning up after the party is over” vibe.

I’m excited to see where this freaky ass season goes.