I closed my review of Season Two with, "I can't wait for Season Three to reach the States." Sadly, I think I have to take those words back.
There's nothing inherently wrong with this 3rd season. It's just that, it's nothing that you didn't experience from Seasons 1 & 2. Simply put, the plots (as breezy and energetic as they are) aren't interesting enough to pull me through. Worse though is the cast changes that occur mid-season.
The performances are fine, with each actor giving their all (although Emma Pearson's Anna can be really tough to sit through sometimes). But they have nothing interesting to do? The romantic relationships get a bit more complicated, but it doesn't feel natural. I always worry when TV shows spice things up this way, because it always feels like the writers don't trust their product. I mean, among all the craziness in this 5-star hotel, why must I watch the series regulars flirt around?
Season Three is going to be notorious among series' fans for when two favorite cast members left the show. I won't say who leaves, and I won't speculate to the real-life reasons for this. All I'll say is that while it's handled relatively well, it definitely left an unforunate mark for the last few episodes. The new additions to the cast are decent enough, particularly with Alexandra Moen's Emily being introduced in a mysterious fashion. But once two lead actors leave the show, the remaining beloved characters can only do so much.
I suppose the cast changes weren't going to be the only problems with this 3rd season, as a couple of ideas from previous seasons are repeated, most notably a wedding scenario and a violent hostage situation. And as much as I love plot twists and surprises, it'd be nice if "Hotel Babylon" would try letting stories progress naturally, without the need to spice up everything. I know I'm contradicting what I loved so much about Season 1 & 2, but this show needs to try slowing down once in a while.
Season Three isn't a bad season, but there's no reason that you should go out of your way to watch it. It's more of the same, which is great news for diehard fans, and sad news for viewers who've tired of the constant escapism. I recommend renting it or using Netflix (which currently has the UK-exclusive Season Four) rather than buying this one. Sorry fans, but my stay at the "Hotel Babylon" this time wasn't my fondest memory.