Once in a great while there is a television series that is so perfect in what it does, the story it tells and the characters it portrays, the results are a fan base that strongly supports and cares for the show, and a wealth of critical appreciation.
Medium is one of those special television series. With an intoxicating blend of creepy and normal in every episode, a laugh or two at realities in family life, intriguing convoluted mysteries and the dreams, this show holds both the audience’s attention and its affection. The creepy element is not Allyson’s ability to dream about crimes, but rather the crimes themselves.
Fans appreciate the integrity of the show in not glamorizing or “souping up” the supernatural, but portraying the psychic element as an ability, like someone else might have the aptitude in music or for public speaking. Allyson is using her talent to make a difference for the good in the world.
Season Three has been a wild ride on the series with some of the best and most thought provoking episodes yet. Allison (Patricia Arquette) gives a perfect performance in every episode, whether she is at home with the family, or querying spirits in the dreamtime, or dealing with very real criminal investigations for District Attorney Devalos (Miguel Sandoval.)
Kudos to the people in charge for seeing that the kids are growing up, and giving them storyline to match in both age appropriate style and action. There is nothing worse than too-old kids still playing precocious tots.
Sofia Vassilieva (Ariel) handled some tough storyline in this season with expert acting ability giving flawless performances. She is good! Maria Lark as Bridgette is always a joy to watch as well, since her responses are so natural and her lines are delivered in a totally believable manner. Baby Marie is getting bits too, that she does well for one so young.
The family action is as important in the episode as the mystery. Joe Dubois (Jake Weber) has a rough year in season three, and we feel every emotion with him. The strength and love of the Dubois family is tangible throughout, good times and bad times.
Season Three set is a Medium fan’s dream. Not only are all 21 episodes available, but many have commentaries. There are several good featurettes The Story of Medium Season 3, The Making of Medium Season 3, Directing with David Arquette, Drawing on Dreams and of course a gag reel that is very funny.
This is all presented on six discs in widescreen. There is a note on the box that some episodes may be edited from their original network version. I’m not certain where that shows up, after watching all the episodes they appear to be as I remember them.
Medium is an excellent adult crime and mystery show. It has children in it, and stories about children, but it is not for the kiddies. As in real life, the crimes are disturbing. Would that in real life we had an Allyson Dubois to call on to help get rid of the monsters.
Medium - The Third Season is now available at Amazon . As of yet, there is not a release date for the UK. Visit the DVD database for more information.
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