Apple TV+ ‘Monarch: Legacy of Monsters’ Episode 3 Review - In Pursuit of Family and Monsters

The third installment of 'Monarch: Legacy of Monsters,' aptly titled 'Secrets and Lies,' ventures deeper into its dual timelines, deftly merging past and present narratives in a captivating storytelling tapestry.

In the present timeline, the episode kicks off with Lee Shaw taking flight from Monarch alongside Cate, Kentaro, and May on a heartfelt mission to trace Cate and Kentaro's missing father. The journey spans across the vivid landscapes of Korea, interspersed with poignant conversations that deepen the bonds between these characters. The emotional gravity of their quest is palpable, and the camaraderie among the group resonates strongly with the audience.

Their pursuit eventually leads them to Alaska, where they stumble upon compelling evidence hinting at the survival of Cate’s father after a presumed plane crash. However, the truth unravels in a chilling revelation: the plane’s wreckage was not a result of an unfortunate accident but a consequence of a monstrous encounter. A moment of tragedy ensues as Shaw’s companion falls prey to the emerging colossal beast, freezing alongside their hopes of escape. The episode concludes with a haunting shot of the monster roaring victoriously, leaving Shaw and the rest paralyzed in horror.

Simultaneously, the 1950s timeline unfurls a gripping narrative where Lee Shaw, Keiko, and William Randa present evidence of a colossal monster’s footprint to the Pentagon’s General. Their proposal, backed by the theory of the monster’s teleportation ability, earns the army's backing and a supply of uranium for tracking the creature due to its radioactivity. However, the General’s ulterior motives overshadow their efforts. He manipulates the situation, bringing forth a nuclear reactor with sinister intentions to eradicate the creature. The heart-wrenching scene witnesses Keiko's grief as the monster succumbs to the General's destructive plan. Yet, amidst this devastation, a glimmer of hope emerges as Shaw negotiates for further resources to track these mysterious monsters.

The episode excels in its technical prowess, boasting commendable cinematography that accentuates the diverse landscapes traversed by the characters. The visual effects elevate the monstrous encounters, capturing the awe-inspiring terror of these colossal beings. The choice of locations adds a layer of authenticity to the narrative, enriching the storytelling experience. Accompanying this visual spectacle is a musical score that adeptly complements the escalating tension, heightening the emotional beats and suspenseful moments.

The performances, notably Mari Yamamoto’s portrayal of Keiko, stand out with their depth and emotive resonance, contributing significantly to the show’s compelling narrative. However, amidst its strengths, 'Secrets & Lies' occasionally falters with clichéd dialogues and forced attempts at humor. Lines like Cate’s contemplation about her father and May’s quip about vintage versus old come across as contrived, disrupting the otherwise natural flow of the scenes. These moments, albeit fleeting, detract from the authenticity of the storytelling and feel out of sync with the show’s otherwise nuanced narrative.

In conclusion, 'Monarch: Legacy of Monsters' continues to enthrall audiences with its captivating storytelling, seamlessly interweaving past and present narratives against a backdrop of colossal creatures and human emotions. While occasional missteps hinder the episode’s narrative fluidity, the series maintains its promise of delivering a thrilling and emotionally resonant tale within the MonsterVerse.

Final Score- [7.5/10]