
And Just Like That Season 3: The Overwhelming Dilemma of Wealth and Relevance
2025-05-29
Author: Jacques
Returning to a Familiar Yet Changed Landscape
The much-anticipated third season of *And Just Like That...* has finally premiered on HBO Max—a platform that has undergone multiple transformations, much like Samantha Jones's ever-changing love interests. This new season presents a familiar yet unsettling shift, opening with the iconic Carrie Bradshaw, played by Sarah Jessica Parker, in a picturesque new Manhattan townhome that is a far cry from her humble roots.
A Shift from Relatable to Resplendent
As Carrie indulges in her luxurious surroundings—complete with elegant decor and a grand staircase—we witness a key underlying issue of the show: its transformation into a narrative that caters to the ultra-wealthy. With the departures of characters like Che and Nya, who added a hint of middle-class realness, AJLT has drifted into the territory of elitism. This shift raises eyebrows, particularly when the series once sought diversity and representation.
From Revolutionary to Routine: The Shift in Storytelling
What was once a trailblazing exploration of relationships and sexuality has now devolved into a series of trivial, wealth-centric dilemmas. While *Sex and the City* portrayed relatable struggles of love and friendship, AJLT now showcases affluent characters grappling with issues that seem utterly detached from reality, such as hiring elite dog walkers or obsessing over designer home decor.
A Glimpse into Escapism: The New Season's Mundane Adventures
AJLT’s new season delivers a series of luxurious but ultimately uninspiring plots, featuring Charlotte searching for a new dog walker amid Upper East Side gossip, and Carrie lamenting over the wait for vintage fabrics for her chaise longue. The contrast with other shows like *The White Lotus* or *Succession*, which unflinchingly critique the lives of the wealthy, is stark.
Mirroring Another World: The Gilded Age Connection
Interestingly, AJLT seems to resemble HBO’s *The Gilded Age* more than its predecessor. Both series indulge in the glamorous lives of the rich without delving deeper into any societal critiques. Instead, AJLT revels in superficial aesthetics, as evidenced by a scene where Charlotte and her friend engage in a comical 'pearl-off', showcasing the characters’ vanity.
Character Evolution or Stagnation?
While Carrie continues to exhibit her classic self-involvement, her journey this season does hint at personal growth, especially during her visits to Aidan’s farm. These moments reveal a softer side of Carrie as she interacts with Aidan's teenage sons. However, they often feel overshadowed by the show's fixation on luxury and trivial pursuits.
A Unique Perspective: Aging Women and Their Stories
This season intriguingly explores the complexities of women in their 50s and 60s, navigating challenging life transitions. Carrie’s reflections on her ever-changing life resonate poignantly throughout the season, offering glimpses of depth amidst the show's focus on opulence.
What Could Be vs. What Is
However, one can’t help but question if the show could delve deeper into meaningful narratives rather than existing solely in a bubble of wealth and privilege. The fleeting moments of authenticity are overshadowed by a lingering discomfort—are we all just watching out of a sense of obligation, or is there a deeper connection to this extravagant escapism?
The Compulsion to Watch
Ultimately, despite its shortcomings, AJLT remains captivating. Perhaps in these tumultuous times, audiences crave lighthearted distractions, even if they come wrapped in the finery of wealthy brunches. As Miranda aptly puts it, ‘I’ve finally discovered the joy of hate-watching,’ and many may find themselves tuning in, unable to resist the allure of the luxurious yet frivolous lives of these iconic characters.