Apple TV+’s Slow Horses Season Finale “Footprints” Reviewed

The season finale of Slow Horses Season 3 Episode 6, titled “Footprints,” now streaming on Apple TV+, delivers a powerful and action-packed conclusion to the season.

One of the standout aspects of this finale is the strong and engaging storylines for each of the characters. Whether it’s Lamb’s (Gary Oldman) thrilling version of Home Alone as he outsmarts his opponents, the tense argument between Louisa (Rosalind Eleazar) and River (Jack Lowden) over a gun, or Shirley’s (Aimee-Ffion Edwards) epicness, there’s never a dull moment. The stakes are high, and the characters’ fates hang in the balance, leaving viewers desperate to know how they will make it out alive.

River, as always, ignores advice and follows his own path. While his grandfather’s (Jonathan Pryce) dementia may have influenced his warnings about leaking a file, it’s clear that there may be negative consequences in already announced season four. It wouldn’t be realistic if only positive outcomes occurred after such a significant revelation. Perhaps Diana, played brilliantly by Kristin Scott Thomas, will face increased pressure from the Home Secretary or media scrutiny on MI5’s operations.

The confrontation between Catherine (Saskia Reeves) and Lamb is undeniably powerful and emotionally charged. The truth about Charles is revealed, and it’s a devastating blow for Catherine. Jackson Lamb, known for his unkindness, doesn’t hold back, resulting in a truly gripping scene. The tension between these characters has been building throughout the season, and it’s satisfying to see it come to a head in such a dramatic fashion.

While the exchange between Shirley and Marcus (Kadiff Kirwan) about a jammed gun is entertaining, there is a slight excess of Catherine’s constant mention of Charles. It may be a tactical move to provoke Lamb into revealing more about Charles, but it starts to feel a bit overplayed. However, this is a minor quibble in an otherwise compelling finale.

Overall, Slow Horses Season 3 delivers on what fans love about the show. The cases may not be groundbreaking, but they provide opportunities for great moments between the slow horses. The pairings of Louisa and River, as well as Shirley and Marcus, are particularly enjoyable to watch. In the next season, it would be interesting to see Roddy in the field with someone new, as this dynamic could inject fresh energy into the show.

One aspect that remains unclear is the purpose of Louisa keeping one of the diamonds. It is briefly touched upon but not fully explored or resolved. Hopefully, this will become more important in Season 4; otherwise, it feels like an unnecessary plot thread.

Fortunately, the show has already been renewed for Season 4, which ensures that fans can look forward to more thrilling episodes and answers to lingering questions.  The aftermath of the shootout at the MI5 storage facility puts the slow horses in grave danger, with none of them safe from potential elimination.

The performances of Kristin Scott Thomas as Taverner and Sophie Okonedo as Tierney are always a joy. They skillfully portray the narrow-minded and egotistical nature of their characters, prioritizing their own careers over the public and the service.

The final two episodes of the season are a perfect blend of action, humor, and heartfelt moments. The show successfully brings Mick Herron’s Real Tigers to life on the small screen, remaining faithful to the source material while adding depth to background details and character relationships. The accelerated mental state of David Cartwright will undoubtedly be a major focus in the next season.

Slow Horses continues to be a shining example of sharp writing, elevated by excellent performances. With more books to adapt and a strong fanbase, we will hopefull get several more seasons of the show. Especially if it maintains its quality and continues to deliver thrilling and engaging storytelling.

All six episodes of Slow Horses Season 3, based on Mick Herron’s Real Tigers, is available to stream on Apple TV+.