Hotel Babylon S3

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.

Four-stars go to a show that's original, has an irreplaceable cast, is fun, sharp, and tender, beautiful to see, and something I'm buying so I can see it again. [Definitely not to a so-called "guilty pleasure," like soap operas Dallas or 90210.]
That said, if you liked "Las Vegas," this is its glitzy hotel Mirage as an exclusive, boutique hotel with a chic clientele and tony service. Yet the staff are working class people, with enough street smarts to give posh service for better-paying jobs. Having that mix of the tosh and the toff gives the fantasy its zest and the drama its heart as they step carefully between ambition and temptation.
You will quickly find yourself liking all the characters, and often even the guests. Get your reservation in now.

Absolutely brilliant series. Dramatic, hilarious, sexy ... Life in a five-star hotel from the staff's perspective. The actors are all excellent; casting was very well done. Technically first-rate - love the camera work, reminiscent of 'Goodfellas.' I guarantee you'll be hooked after the first episode - I only regret it was a finite series, and didn't continue for several more seasons.

› Go to Amazon.com to see all 8 reviews  3.8 out of 5 stars