It has been a week since the quite explosive season 3 finale of Castle and tonight will be the first Monday night without our favorite show for the next four months. I know, I am depressed too. I don’t know about you guys, but I have still not recovered from the avalanche of information (and feelings) that poured out of my screen last week and I am willing to bet that most of you feel the same way.
So now that the season is over, it is a great opportunity to look back and see what worked, what didn’t, what we wished had happened and what we can look forward to in season 4.
I can only rely on my own experience with Castle and season 3 was the first season that I actually got to follow on ABC. I only started watching Castle last summer — after procrastinating for months — and it was love at first sight. I basically did a marathon and watched seasons 1 and 2 in a week and a half last June. So I was completely spoiled having watched a total of 34 episodes back to back.
When season 3 started in September, I admit I was still a little green in the Castle fandom and my involvement with the community developed a lot over the season. I don’t know what was going on in the fandom last summer, but from what I have seen around the internet throughout the third season (plus my own opinion), the general consensus is that this was the best season by far.
However, not everything was perfect, as we are all well aware of the show’s faults, but for the most part, things seemed to have gone smoothly.
The Good
Character development
This is a huge part of why I love this show so much. Over the course of three seasons, they have managed to develop interesting characters and I am not even counting the leads. Season 3 was a huge step forward for Ryan and Esposito as they both got involved more and more in the storylines and had their background stories further explored. While other characters like Alexis and Lanie were criminally underused, Detectives Ryan and Esposito shined all season long, culminating with their heartbreaking fight scene in the finale when they find out about Captain Montgomery’s betrayal.
But the gem this season was really Castle and Beckett. However frustrating their dancing around each other may be, we have to admit that they did a great job at deepening their relationship, showing their trust and respect for each other. If we look back to the end of season 2 and compare that to the season 3 finale, the contrast couldn’t be any more obvious. Where as in the season 2 finale Beckett was tentatively willing to give Castle a chance, in ‘Knockout’we had them laying all their cards on the table. Of course the fact that (should I still do a SPOILER ALERT warning for this?) Beckett got shot in the end of that episode puts a damper on things, but this is not something they can back away from. I just hope Andrew Marlowe and co. handle it well in season 4.
More screen time to secondary characters
Of course the story revolves around the two lead characters, but season 3 was a nice refresher in the sense that we got a lot more screen time with everyone else. While in the other two seasons, 99.9% of the scenes had either Beckett or Castle on screen, season 3 allowed characters like Ryan, Esposito and Martha to have their moment in the sun. Martha wasn’t on all that much, but when she was, it was almost always for an important scene. I wish Alexis and Lanie had gotten more time, as well as the Captain (especially now that he is gone), but they managed to do an incredible job with the other three.
The balance between drama and comedy
I’ll be the first to admit that I am not usually a comedy fan. Castle is probably the one exception for me and that’s because it is not a full out comedy. Because of that, I confess I enjoy the more dramatic episodes a lot more than the funny ones. That said, I think they did a really good job this season balancing out the comedy and drama throughout the twenty four episodes. Even though there were hilarious episodes (‘Nikki Heat’, anyone?), the darkest episodes still tend to stick more with me.
It is no secret that I absolutely loved both ‘Knockdown’and ‘Knockout’. A huge part of that is because episodes like those allow us to dive in head first into the characters’minds and that is what is fascinating to me as a TV fan. ‘Nikki Heat’was probably the one exception that helped us understand Beckett a little bit better, but I find that the funny ones are usually the episodes that serve as fillers or do little to further along the storyline in terms of character development; as opposed to the more dramatic ones, which usually set the pace of the storyline of the season.
The acting
Sure the cast was great in the first two seasons, but I think season 3 really gave them some really fantastic material to work with. Whether it was a funny scene or a really powerful dramatic one, the cast really hit the ball out the park. Again, I really hope Stana Katic gets her way overdue recognition for her work because that girl can play the hell out of any scene. I still can’t watch the hangar scene in the finale without feeling Beckett’s pain and desperation.
The Bad
Continuity
Okay, so they tied some loose ends in ‘Knockout’and we were all excited about it. While I understand the need to only address those issues in the finale, I am still ticked about how they handled it throughout the season. It’s okay if it’s part of the characters’personality to not talk about it and confront the issues head on, but it’s not okay to completely ignore those issues all season long. Sure we had some sort of closure in the finale, but the path they chose to take us on until then pissed off a lot of fans. They didn’t have to talk about it, but some subtle signs — subtlety is, after all, the trademark of the show — would have appeased the more enthusiastic fans. Here is hoping they handle this particular aspect better in season 4.
Significant others
When season 3 started, we were all well aware that both Castle and Beckett would be in a relationship with other people and that it was a device to keep them apart for longer while they worked their issues out. Gina was out of the picture halfway through the season so there were high hopes that Josh would follow in her footsteps soon. After ‘Setup’, fans were anxiously awaiting the moment Motorcycle Boy would be kicked to the curb, especially after Kate’s admission that things weren’t working out.
Then ‘Countdown’happened and the fandom exploded. The feedback following that episode was incredible and not in a good way for The Powers That Be. Fans were pissed off and feeling cheated when Beckett did a complete 180 and decided to give Josh another chance. After that, we had another seven episodes to wrap up that particular storyline and it didn’t happen.
Okay, so maybe it will be kicked to season 4, but what bothers me is that we have no idea how this relationship is going for Beckett. In the finale, she pretty much admitted that there is something there between her and Castle, they had that big fight, she acknowledged that she wants him to be the one to stand with her and he told her he loves her.
Throughout that we heard nothing about Josh’s whereabouts. Is he in New York or did he take off on a mission with Doctors Without Borders again? Are they still together or has she broken it off with him off screen and we just haven’t heard about it?
It just feels like there was a lot laid out on the table, but there is still this huge chunk of information missing.
What can we expect for season 4?
The ‘Knockout’cliffhanger
Andrew Marlowe has already stated that the cliffhanger will be dealt with, so we will probably pick up right where they left us in ‘Knockout’. However, there will most like be a time jump to show Beckett’s recovery. It is also likely that we will see Josh early in season 4. After all, Beckett was shot in the chest and Dr. Motorcycle Boy just happens to be a cardiac surgeon. I just hope this is where they’ll wrap up this storyline.
Castle’s love declaration
According to Marlowe, the fact that Castle said the L word will not be ignored. However, it will not be confronted head on as it usually is the norm with the show. I am not sure how I feel about that yet.
3XK
We will revisit the 3XK storyline and deal with the fact that he stole Ryan’s gun and badge.
Castle and Beckett
There will probably be a whole new dynamic between those two. A lot has been said, especially in ‘Knockout’, and it’s just not something they can back away from. Castle will also be crazy protective of Kate now that there is someone out there determined to kill her and they still have no idea who that someone is.
So there you have it, Castle fans. What did you think of season 3? And what are your expectations for season 4?
I doubt Beckett will remember that Castle said those three magic words! After all, she'd just been shot and was fading out of consciousness. But obviously Castle will realize that he's admitted his love, and this may freak him out a bit as he waits by her bedside.
How can we possibly live through a whole Castle-free summer!?!?!?!?!
One word: Fanfiction.
I think the significant others storyline (if you want to call it that) was the worse thing about this season. Then continuity. Sure they "laid everything out on the table" in the season finale but did they really? I say "NO", all they did was state that they don't talk about what they don't talk about.
I also think this season has done the Beckett character no favors. Some forums have coined the name "Bipolar Beckett" for her b/c that's how she's been written this season. Just mixed signals galore. We all know that the character has always been written as someone who keeps everything close to the vest BUT 3 seasons in we need to know more! Why haven't we learned more about Beckett and this Josh business from conversations w Lanie? Are we really supposed to buy that these two are friends?
Season 4 needs to have a little more conversations and a tad less subtext. The conversation at the end of "The Dead Pool" was a prime example …. Castle/Beckett had an honest conversation and the subtext was pulled back. IMO season 4 also needs to rehabilitate Beckett's character bc this season did her no favors. Castle had tremendous growth this season, season 4 needs to do the same for Beckett.
I agree with Gigi—Castle's character has grown so much esp. throughout this season, but Kate……well, I agree seems all over the place and those that have coined the name "Bipolar Beckett", are pretty accurate. She's an amazing woman, very strong, determined and a damn good detective, but with her personal life, she is definitely weak natured and is robbing herself of true love. Until the end of season 3, Rick never confessed his true feelings for Kate, but his actions throughout the past seasons, has consistantly shown his true respect and feelings for her. He has been there so many times for the big stuff and where has Josh been? Does he know that Rick went to L.A. with her–how does that play into the story? How can Rick tell Kate how he really feels and face rejection and terrible pain if Kate turns around and says. " Hey, I am still with Josh"! Rick has no clue where Josh and Kate stand–neither does Kate for that matter. I feel if Rick tells Kate his true feelings for her, she may end it for sure with Josh, but she did that last year with the break up with Demming and then Rick took off with his ex–Gina–unknowing that Kate was getting ready to confess her feelings to Rick. She is mixed up, but knows she loves Rick a lot. What I get frustrated about is—It seems like Kate wants Rick to confess his feelings, decide what they are–but she can do the same, why does it HAVE to be just him? Like you said, their are mixed signals. L.A. was a perfect example….the conversation Rick started and they got so far and then she chickened out and got up and left—what was that? Was that Rick's fault that she DOES run away from her feelings? I am hoping that in season 4, the characters start openning up to eachother and work on what they have been feeling for eachother for so long. I love these two characters so much, but I am tired of them being dumbed down for so darn long. I mean really—–a best selling writer who can't find words for himself when he needs them AND a gorgeous, amazing detective, who hasn't a "clue". when it comes to her own case, is just getting old!! They actors are so talented–them them grow and work their magic please!!!!
Agreed 100%
Kate really needs to figure herself out- huge fan but very disappointed!
I think Beckett will remember vaguely what she heard but not be confident enough to address it. (Did I dream it? Was I so out of it I made it all up?) I expect Castle to be super-protective of Kate and not back away from Josh the way he used to. Unless guilt drives him away. Castle will be devastated because he's the one who pressured Kate to reopen the investigation into her mom's death and he will be carrying so much guilt from her being wounded that it could cause him to back off for awhile. Couple that with the fact that the captain undoubtedly mailed the documents from his safe to Castle and you've got lots of intrigue! I can't wait for September!
I'm with Rita re: Kate's memory and Rick's protectiveness and guilt.
I prefer to not refer to the lighter episodes as fillers, for that denigrates their place in the overall theme and progression of the show. They are important to the overall chemistry between the characters. Sure the more dramatic episodes are far more memorable, this wouldn't be Castle without the light-hearted ones. The lighter episodes between To Live and Die in LA and Knockout were not simple "fillers", they could be seen as "breathers", where we can relax, catch our breath and simply enjoy the show.
Other than this minor objection – good analysis. Thank you.
I agree that not allowing us to see the Beckett/Josh relationship and judge it for ourselves was a major misstep — if we can't see what she gets out of it, it's harder to understand her conflict. I don't think Beckett's characterisation was inconsistent, because the character has always been written as two women at different stages of emotional development — one is a professional in a demanding, dangerous, stressful job, a grown woman comfortable with her sexuality but wary of attachment. And the other is still nineteen years old. In theory, Josh should exemplify the conflict Beckett has between what her shell-shocked, headstrong inner teenager wants, and what her tighly controlled adult self allows her to have, but since we never saw them together for more than a couple of seconds at a time, and always in the context of the precinct, her actions had a lot of people confused.
I also agree with the comment about Lanie, but that was evident last season as well. There's nothing we've seen about that relationship that indicates they're anything more than friendly colleagues. I know it's difficult to show that within the parameters they've set up: Castle's home is his family where he's surrounded by women, and Beckett's is the precinct where she's surrounded by men. But I sense that divide is beginning to blur, so maybe there's hope. Even one scene with Lanie would help not just with this problem, but with explaining Josh from Beckett's POV if TPTB don't want to show the two of them together.
I didn't/don't have a problem with Beckett having a boyfriend that's not Castle at this point in the story. But honestly, if you're that afraid to show one of your leads in an SO relationship, maybe you shouldn't have given them an SO in the first place. I just really hope that after all this, we at least get to see the breakup, so we've got some idea of why she kept him around for so long.
You are so right.
You know when you stop and think about it, Joss had a longer conversation with Castle in the back of the ambulance in “Countdown” than we ever saw him have with Beckett the entire season! How wrong is that?!
Luciana I completely agree with you about the comedy vs drama. I feel exactly the same way. There are a few exceptions, I loved Reba- but on the whole I find most comedies now rather inane full of one liners and sexual inuendo. The comedy on Castle is more character driven humor- the best kind in my opinion. It flows from Castles's personality, or Kate's 'zingers" when you least expect them or the brotherly affection between Ryan and Esposito- it doesn't feel like scripted one liners. That said, I prefer the dramatic episodes as well and see the more comedic eps on Castle also as 'filler". I did very much enjoy Nicki Heat but that is because we got to see the jealous side of Becket :-)
As for Josh, I swear he's like the cousin in the attic who is only brought out when necessary. He's always conveniently away until they need him to break up something between Castle and Becket! I think they are doing the character of Becket an injustice though- I think she has more class then to lead someone on. If she is still with him,, why would she be angry at Castle for not admitting his feelings? "It's not enough" well what can you expect if you tell him you're with someone else? I did like what he said to her though, it cut to the heart of why she is with these guys- because she can't allow herself to really find happiness with someone she really loves- maybe because she is afraid they will leave her like her mom did.
Lots to explore in season 4 that's for sure!
Regarding Lanie and Beckett's relationship as friends, Lanie tried to draw Beckett out several times over the past 3 seasons and Beckett would not open up to her. Beckett's emotional tug of war seems to be not just in her relationships with men. Everyone sees the magic between Castle and Beckett, but her. Even Montgomery, even her father.
As far Castle's guilt? Don't agree that he should feel guilty. He told her in "the talk" to walk away, if not for her own sake, then for those who loved her. She then puts it to Castle, "What are we?" And he doesn't back down, speaking not only for himself, but for all the fans of the show. Then she says, "I'll tell you what we are, we are over Castle. Now get out." And he does. She knows how he feels, but too messed up to act on it. As for Josh. Well I think surely after Knockout, he must surely become irrelevant, whether Beckett consciously remembers Castle's declaration of love or not. Too much water under the bridge, as they say. I think Castle, while being protective of Beckett, will not view the Josh issue as he did before and Josh will see Castle's feelings for Kate as she rehabilitates. The writer's are obsessed with subtext, so I'm sure we'll find out Josh knew about LA and probably some other things.
It's going to be a great season for sure. We all would have to admit, that while we have been on quite a roller coaster ride this season, the writers and their talent with storytelling have kept us absolutely compelled with these wonderful characters for quite some time now.
I think the guilt comes from way before the finale, really. Sure he tries to stop her from doing something stupid in "Knockout", but he was the one who reopened the investigation back in season 1, remember? If he had left it alone, none of this would've happened.
I thought of that after I'd written the comment. So I agree, only natural he would feel guilt. But it all speaks to great writing and creativity I think. I've read other forums for other shows and they just aren't as emotionally charged as those comments from fans of Castle. You once wrote Luciana, that we should trust the writers. Wasn't sure if I agreed then but I do now. They have given us a wonderful show for 3 years. Now let's see what they cook up for us next season.
Re [Bad] Continuity
“It’s okay if it’s part of the characters’ personality to not talk … and confront the issues head on, but it’s not okay to completely ignore those issues all season long. … some subtle signs – subtlety is, after all, the trademark of the show – would have appeased the more enthusiastic fans. Here is hoping they handle this particular aspect better in season 4.”
Amen sister!!
And here's another continuity issue/error from the finale that's been bugging me. In "The Dead Pool" did Montgomery, or did he not, say he had three children?
Victim's mother to Montgomery: "You have kids?"
Montgomery: "Two daughters and a son."
Where was the son in the finale?! I mean even if he's older and away at college or overseas or something, surely he'd return for his father's funeral. ??? Or as mentioned with other continuity mistakes in this show, a simple line of dialog explaining his absence should have been given. See, that's the thing that just irks me!
Europa, the son is in the funeral. and no, he is just a little boy. AM confirmed that.
Who is "AM?" And is there a still image or promo pic because all I see are close-ups of his wife and the two daughers. ???? I'm just saying, I can't be the only one who nit-piks like this? :)
I have a few thoughts about Season 4 which have been rattling around in my brain. According to "Knockout" , Beckett is still alive because Montgomery cut a deal to keep her alive. With him dead, the deal is off, which means Beckett should be in danger EVERY SHOW (when she survives this finale shooting). This would make the "light" and "fun" shows difficult to do until "GOD" is taken care of. UNLESS someone else cuts a "deal with the devil". Would Castle use the information Montgomery probably sent him to "blackmail" this mystery man (who will no longer be a mystery in Season 4) to stay away from Beckett. He leaves Beckett alone, Castle hinders the investigation. This could lead to a major Beckett/Castle confrontation as Season 4 progresses.
Also with this mystery man, I think it may be Bob Armen's partner or handler when he was undercover. This would make him a former FBI agent who could now be someone like Col. Bell from NCIS. This would give him access to "hired guns" like Lockwood. I guess it depends on how long TPTB want this story thread to continue.
I was very disappointed in the season as a whole and in the finale. Making the Captain the "3rd Man" had no basic in anything that occured before and likely was done because the actor wanted to leave the series. Having Beckett shot was a joke – no way she dies so why worry about it. She will not remember Castle's "I love you". The shows concerning Beckett's mother's murder are a drag on the series, and they will continue in season 4. Come on, if this all powerful man was really worried about Beckett she would have been killed last season, why make a deal with Hightower to keep her alive? I believe this series works as a comedy-mystery, making it a dark drama kills the spark.
Chuck makes a good point. It's going to very difficult to have the light romantic comedy mystery thing work, while all the while we are all wondering when next the powers that be will try and take Beckett out. It's time for closure on her mother's murder, then you could still believe the comedy/mystery episodes.
One thing to keep in mind is that “The Dragon” (that’s what I’m going to call him for the time being) wants to remain anonymous – at all costs – and while picking off the people involved one by one is a way to do that it’s leaving a trail – very public well publicized trail. The thing about the murder of Beckett’s mom and her colleagues is that those murders were made to look like random acts of violence so no one really paid any attention to them. It’s different with all these other murders. As Beckett and company get closer to finding out the truth “The Dragon” seems to get more desperate and, imo, sloppy.
I think shooting Beckett was an act of desperation on the assumption that Montgomery told her something before he died. But in theory, Montgomery could have told any number of people what he knew and “The Dragon” knows that but Beckett was the obvious, first, choice to take out next.
If Castle is indeed the person now in possession of the secretes, he’s also now the person in a position to call some shots in order to protect Beckett – as long as he doesn’t reveal himself to “The Dragon” or anyone else [other than the audience]. That’s the key and the avenue to some potentially great episodes next season including “light romantic comedy mystery” ones if you think about it.
How long does it take for a healthy, athletic, young woman to recover from a gunshot wound to the chest assuming no major complications? A couple of months? That’s more than enough time for Castle (potentially with the help of Esposito and Ryan) to put a plan into place to protect Beckett while keeping her out of the loop during her hospital stay and rehab. And don’t forget, just like “The Dragon,” Castle has deep pockets and connections too. By the time Beckett is back at work things could quite possibly be back to “normal” (even with a new captain in place) and the usual “Castle” hilarity can in sue while this story arc simmers in the background. The build up to a dramatic confrontation between Castle and Beckett regarding secretes etc. at the end of season could be huge. If the writers are smart and cleaver enough to superbly go from light-hearted to dark they can go in the other direction too.
Great comment Europa. Yes, Castle has many connections and the money too. And with Ryan and Esposito, this could make for some incredible shows. Castle even knew people of a dubious nature because of the books he's written. Thanks for the great comment, going to go watch Flowers For Your Grave. Always watch that episode when I get Castle fever.
I couldnt agree more. I read that Andrew Marlowe was interested in having the new captain the person who doesnt really like Beckett and Castle, which could create things like them investigating a casr behind that captains' back etc… If Castle is really the one with all the information from the Captain, this could create some fantastic episodes and storylines. I agree with everyone else, I would love to see the writers explore the Lanie and Beckett relationship more.
All i can say is hurry up September!!! I need my weekly dose of Castle!!! Until then, gonna hit the DVD's of season 1 and 2!
@Richard
Excellent choice (“Flowers for Your Grave”). I have a friend who’s only seen episodes from season three. I can’t wait for them to see everything from seasons one and two as well but especially that very first episode. How far they have all come – and I’m not just talking about Stana’s hair styles. LOL.
I think the significant other story line is played out – Kate and Josh broke up sometime towards the end of season 3 (my guess: probably before "The dead pool"). She just didn't tell Castle about it. All her reactions in certain situations would make sense. Also that she didn't even acknowledge Castle mentioning Josh in THE finale talk, she just ignored it – because he's no longer in the picture and hasn't been for a while. At least that's my take on the Josh story-line.
I think it will be resolved in the season 4 premiere, either just by mentioning that Josh did Kate's surgery, or by him actually being on-screen. And that is when Rick will find out about their break-up, I guess, hence the significant other story line will be resoveld (for Rick and for us viewers): quick, clean and without taking up to much screentime. ;) I hope it plays out that way!
Also, I am actually pretty happy with season 3, best season so far. Then again, I simply LOVE Castle, doesn't matter which season: a balanced blend of wit, fun and drama!!! I hope this show keeps going for many more seasons!
For me, one of the bads was the regression of the Kate/Lanie friendship. In the first two seasons we saw a lot of scenes between them. I get that now that they are closer, we have Castle/Beckett goodness when there is a need to put info about Beckett out there, but I miss the interaction, and the way they used to discuss things (more like Lanie getting things out of Kate). On this vein, I miss Kate's exchanges with most of the cast outside of Castle. Excepting her talk with Martha on "The lucky Stiff", and her asking the Captain to get Castle cut out on "Knockout", all her other one on ones seem to have disappeared.
Of course, like you said, continuity is the big first place bad.
Good was the progress. I loved how through the season we saw the leadings get into a solid friendship (all other issues standing). Even as they don't discuss a lot of important things, the sharing was at an all time high.
On an extra note, I saw some people complaining about the dark turn of the season finale, but the first season was a lot darker than the second and third, so I don't see how 5 serious episodes means the show changed it's genre. I like the lighthearted atmosphere, but come on people, you can't beat the shear character development of the occasional serious episode.
Just looked at Luciana's slideshow, Best of season 3. Great shots and great article!
All in all, it was a great season and I agree with Taly, a handful of dark episodes do not a season make. As for me? I have a 3 day weekend and intend to get some snacks and watch me some Castle!
Seems like season four will be Castles' time to so all the heavy lifting. Both Montgomery and Jim Beckett said Kate will only listen to him. That places all the burden for her protection on his shoulders.
I'm thinking that large dossier Montgomery mailed, is going to Castle, with the name of the mysterious
Mr. D. [dragon] all his deeds and dates. That letter he included probably advises Castle not to give Kate his name until enough evidence is gathered for an air tight case. This in turn will lead to some bitter arguments between C/B. Season four may not be all hearts and roses.
That's why I think it would be great if Martha Rodgers and Jim Beckett meeting at the hospital in ep1
would give us insight into what Kate really thinks about Castle and a continued relationship between those to would give them insight into one another. But I guess that would be to logical and Marlowe doesn't seem to do logical.
My vote for the new captain is Dina Meyer. Talk about tough and good looking, she would shake things up.
If the dossier doesn't go to Castle, it goes to someone who feeds Castle the info. Same thing: Castle feels responsible for Kate, knowing something that she doesn't know and withholding it to protect her will cause him grief, and Kate anger – as she has that whole 'trusting' issue to deal with. I think it would be interesting if Kate calls him on not writing too. Kate's a fan, and someone needs to remind him that while it's not MDs without borders or solving murders, it's still important work and that – newsflash – he's really GOOD at it (and Beckett in the hospital with nothing to read. . .) Also, Castle is a known associate of Beckett's – he's in danger too – OR – better off than killing a popular novelist, just get someone in as Captain who DOESN'T like Castle's invading of cop turf.
This is purely speculation on my part, but I think one way that season 4 could play out is that Castle will keep those files to himself (and I am sure he is the one Montgomery sent them to) for as long as possible. Marlowe has said recently that the SO storyline is played out and that sometime around midseason we will get something satisfactory on the Castle/Beckett front.
So here is my take on it: They will get together eventually and I think they'll give it a shot sometime halfway through the season. All is fine in the Castle/Beckett world until for some reason those files will come to surface and Beckett will feel completely betrayed by the fact that Castle has been sitting on valuable information about her mom's case for months and never bothered to share that with her. With her trust issues and everything, this will probably lead to another heart wrenching episode and Beckett telling him they are over again. But this time she means it.
Might be a gloomy outlook on season 4, but they won't live happily ever after this fast. Not if we want the show to continue for a couple of more seasons.
Anyways, just my two cents.
Your take sounds pretty good to me. I think that they really should get Beckett and Castle together during this season, to me it's really the make or break season. If they dont get the together for a bit, this series will head down the same path as Bones and the relationship will go cold i think.
I reckon that they should get Castle and Beckett to hook up during the middle of the season and have Beckett's mothers' case brought up maybe as a 2 part episode (like Setup and Countdown) as the last 2 episodes of the season, where those files will be brought up and Beckett will blow up and they'll try and solve this case.
Not trying to get ahead of myself but i reckon if that's the storyline, then season 5 will be about rebuilding the relationship.
But that's just a few thoughts.
I've had a week to think about this show. Like a lot of Castle fans, I started out as a Nathan Fillion fan, and the first season and half of the second season seemed to ride a lot on his (ahem – brown) coattails. It wasn't really until 'Sucker Punch' – the ep where we learn the identity of Johanna Beckett's murderer that I really began to take Stana Katic seriously as his equal on screen. This season, I've been increasingly impressed (as you have Luciana) by her dramatic and comedic range. AM auditioned 120 actresses for the role, and thank god he did – because she is without a doubt destined for much bigger things down the road. So Castle fans, love her while you have her. About season 4, and what to expect, I would add:
Castle and his writing. He tells Martha in 'Knockdown' 'it's not about the writing anymore' – and in 'Knockout' – We see him angrily hurl a whisky glass at the cover art of his next novel. It's clear that he bears the emotional weight of having some responsiblity for both Beckett's shooting and Montgomery's death. Expect this self-punishment to continue, until someone (Beckett!!) reminds him of who he is – a novelist. (PS – this would be a logical 'reset' that would allow them to do the light-hearted episodes again).
Another thing: In 'Knockdown' we see the killer Hal Lockwood torturing with the intent to kill Ryan and Esposito to find out what 'the cops' knew about Beckett's investigation; in Season 4 I expect that all four of 'this immediate' family of Beckett, Castle, Ryan and Esposito to be at risk, given that Castle's relationship with Beckett is stuff of the tabloids. And also – I really look forward to finding out how Ryan's badge and gun play out after being taken by the 3xk killer.
My concern is that until we all get closure on the murder of Beckett's mother, this series becomes shackled to that story. I really don't care to watch another season of the same old conflicts:
Will they or won't they?
Who killed Beckett's mother?
Where is the 3X killer?
One thing I love about NCIS is some closure to particular story lines. And when there is a loose thread, it is tied up and finished at some point. You can count on it. I look forward to next season, but I believe it is the pivotal, make or break season for this show as Flick wrote. I enjoyed the Will Beal scripts; the darker plots, but what hooked me on Castle was the wonderful relationships and banter of the characters. I have been watching parts of Castle episodes (my favorite parts) and found myself missing those great stories. Then I realized that I don't think they can go back to light comedy/drama ever. NCIS has done it though, so we will see…
PS…
Luciana wrote concerning next season, "Might be a gloomy outlook on season 4" , but why? Why and when did Castle get gloomy?? I understand your outlook Luciana, and actually, agree with you. But it bothers me, and you are correct, that the outlook is gloomy. Maybe they should just change the title of the show to :
Who Killed Beckett's Mother?
Forget that Castle is a highly successful writer who was so captivated by Beckett and which is the premise for the whole series…gloom has settled upon the whole show because some incredibly powerful individual, who can secretly assemble an army of hit men cannot be found. Is it Lex Luther? or Professor Moriarty? Good heavens, contact the Homeland security agent in Countdown for help!
I love the show, but I have seen other shows run about 5 years tops, because the writers or whomever lost site of the original magic and original reason a particular show became popular. I enjoyed laughing out loud and just really enjoying each episode–dead bodies and all, but now (and I'm sure this will be the same next season) I sit in a slight state of anxiety, wondering what "sucker punch" will be delivered in the latest episode. I know, it's just TV and I'm just another of millions of fans, but I sadly agree with Luciana, the outlook for season 4? GLOOMY :(
This is a great show n i love it.I agree with all of you.You all explained n questioned evry aspect of the show,which is great btw.So there's nothing more left for me to say.Only one question though,
Andrew marlowe said that there'll be a possible timejump at the beginning of the season 4.So guys what do u think,how it'll played? & also what is ur opinion on this timejump idea?