House of Cards (2013)

:

Season 3
  • Network: Netflix
  • Series Premiere Date: Feb 1, 2013
Season #: 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1
User Score
7.3

Generally favorable reviews- based on 450 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 338 out of 450
  2. Mixed: 59 out of 450
  3. Negative: 53 out of 450
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User Reviews

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  1. dudeldideldai
    Mar 3, 2015
    10
    Still awesome and my favourite TV show.
    Kevin Spacey in one of his best roles. Robin Wright is doing a great job as well.
    If you haven't seen it yet. you missed something.
  2. KevowOfRice
    Feb 28, 2015
    10
    Holy cow i love this tv show! It's always impossible to tell whats going to happen next. Frank is at his peak stress throughout the season and occasionally finds a clever way of accomplishing his goals. House of cards continues to amaze me with the political battles that are dished out between the president and seemingly everyone else.
  3. vormov
    Mar 1, 2015
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I disagree with the other critics of season 3. I don't think season 3 was a snoozefest, boring, or out of character. I think the people who don't like season 3 are missing the entire point of the show. Season 3 harbors some of the most intense moments in the entire series up to this point.

    Spoilers beyond this point:

    I really felt for Doug, the creator's choice to include him as our intro into season 3 was wonderful. It humanized a very machine-like individual whom up to this point, had done everything Underwood had told him to. But without Underwood valuing his actions, Doug sets out on his own journey, finds himself (more than once). I kinda predicted Doug's double-agenting of Heather Dunbar, but by the time it happened I had entirely forgotten about the journal and I briefly believed that he had truly betrayed Frank. Truly remarkable subplot, and not a single moment was wasted. The end of his story arc in the season finale had me feeling that "WTF" kind of moment, it was great and disgusting at the same time.

    I feel as though the Remy/Jackie subplot was both underplayed or "too little too late," and at the same time sort of irrelevant to anything in the main story arc. It occurs after Jackie completely caves and, whereas in seasons 1 and 2 it occurred when the stakes were at their highest for both of them. I don't think it does their character's any justice.

    The Underwood's divide is displayed tremendously. Clair's turn to dissent, and Frank's heavy-handedness have never been more clearly highlighted. In the end, I really thought she was going to ask him to let her be on the ticket (or even make a presidential run herself) as was hinted the entire season ("They like you better than me", "I wouldn't have been in this office without you" and etc). I feel the divide is even unfair to Frank himself, who despite his rocky past, did the least undermining and distrusting his wife than he had in the past. Just when he relied on her, she shuts him out at his weakest point. If anything, this showcases Clair's weakness, not Frank's. Frank is willing to work things out when she walks out on him, Frank is willing to kill for her protection (theoretically at least), Frank is willing to go to bat for her when he knows that she cannot perform the job (The whole ambassador thing). I feel like, for once, Frank's tyrannical nature was quelled by the truth, what he says in the last scene of Season 3 is absolute truth. She'd be nothing without him. Even if the "marital problems" angle is just a Season-ender hype moment, Frank really would be better off without her.

    This entire season showcases Frank's undoing, and it isn't his own ruthlessness. Its his humanizing. Its him being in the public light and not being able to publicly be the animal he once was. His spiral out of control is showcased by his blindness to what he should do, which causes him to doubt himself and creates a dynamic where he keeps ignoring his own instincts (even though his instincts are what put him in the Oval Office). His ignoring of his brutal instincts keep causing him to consistently make the wrong decisions. The scene where Frank and Petrov talk in the valley reveals this. At the time, as a viewer, I was thinking what Frank was thinking ("This can't be true, I won't believe it, Clair is very capable..."). But after watching the season finale, my opinion had changed. Petrov was right, at least in that scene. Nobody will help Frank clean up his mess when the House of Cards starts to fall. How will he get out?

    I also didn't like how the foreign affairs scenario played itself out just to become its own problem. It struck me as a bit poorly written. The whole UN Peace Keeping mission subplot undoes itself as it progresses through the season.

    I also didn't like the writer subplot. Frank Underwood would not put that kind of access into the hands of someone he knew would have the power to destroy him in the public eye. Especially considering, unlike the people who work for Underwood, the writer hadn't proved his loyalty. Frank Underwood made literally every other character prove their loyalty, even Clair but not this writer. Either a mistake on his part or a forceful introduction of a character. I feel the only reason why Frank reached out to this guy was to maybe have a friend, or someone he could lie to like he used to be able to (maybe the writer's "addiction" to the access was a lie or an analogy for Frank's addiction to lying).

    Overall the season was great. Waited for the Season to drop and started watching at exactly 3am EST. Powered through it in a few nights.    … Expand
  4. anilbag
    Mar 4, 2015
    10
    Awesome show, perfect acting and still surprising from the first scene and from the first episode. Second season is better than the first and the third season is better than the former ones. Underwood is still stunning and cunning. Thanks for all the hard work.
  5. mpc105
    Mar 6, 2015
    8
    I have followed this show from the beginning. The production value is great. The acting is at least good and often excellent. The plot is over the top fun if dark. It is enough to make one wonder just what our "leaders" are really doing in Washington. The one really horrible flaw is Kevin Spacey's pathetic attempt at the southern accent. I was born in Georgia and spent time in both SouthI have followed this show from the beginning. The production value is great. The acting is at least good and often excellent. The plot is over the top fun if dark. It is enough to make one wonder just what our "leaders" are really doing in Washington. The one really horrible flaw is Kevin Spacey's pathetic attempt at the southern accent. I was born in Georgia and spent time in both South Carolina and Georgia growing up and going to school including post graduate degrees. All my grandparents, parents and in-laws were natives of Georgia or South Carolina and I have never heard anything like this accent. Somebody really needs to help Spacey stop sounding like an idiot.… Expand
  6. idleidee
    Mar 8, 2015
    10
    Just awesome how the story further develops now .. when the stakes and entourages have changed for both F and C. They got there quite "easily", familiar terrain. But now its a whole new ballgame that needs a different approch.. Or maybe not.. but there are some keys lost and some doors shut. Like the "Stamper Key" really is needed.. Great acting again. great story. Far too good toJust awesome how the story further develops now .. when the stakes and entourages have changed for both F and C. They got there quite "easily", familiar terrain. But now its a whole new ballgame that needs a different approch.. Or maybe not.. but there are some keys lost and some doors shut. Like the "Stamper Key" really is needed.. Great acting again. great story. Far too good to binge-watch.. but ow.. so.. wanted to know how it will proceed.. one more.. just one more.. One more and then i quit for today.. omg, out, out! sleep!… Expand
  7. josephkokomo
    Mar 16, 2015
    10
    I feel compelled to finally join metacritic, after all this time, to say this one thing: the performances between these two (Spacey and Wright) give me goosebumps. It reminds me of the caliber of Edie Falco and James Gandolfini in 'The Sopranos'. The episode on House of Cards this season, with the gay activist in Russia, is one of the best hours of television I've ever seen. I getI feel compelled to finally join metacritic, after all this time, to say this one thing: the performances between these two (Spacey and Wright) give me goosebumps. It reminds me of the caliber of Edie Falco and James Gandolfini in 'The Sopranos'. The episode on House of Cards this season, with the gay activist in Russia, is one of the best hours of television I've ever seen. I get goosebumps thinking about Robin Wright and Kevin Spacey (and Christian Carmago's performance). Can't believe this only got a '73' rating.… Expand
  8. Wrz77
    Feb 28, 2015
    9
    Better than Seasons 1 and 2 combined. Kevin Spacey has topped his already great acting this season. The score by Jeff Beal blows away his work on both first seasons. Every single moment had me captivated.
  9. FIF
    Mar 2, 2015
    10
    Holy S***! Well, let me just say, couldn't stop watching this season until the final credits rolled! Previous two seasons were great, but I was able to put it down for a bit between episodes, not the case here. Great acting, writing, directing, suspense and the finale was especially killer! Do not walk, run to HOC 3!!
  10. dfelesina
    Mar 2, 2015
    9
    Each season keeps getting better and better. It should probably keep going for one more season, two at the max. Frank Underwood's downfall should start soon.
  11. chidime
    Mar 2, 2015
    9
    Oh man! The negative reviews just irritate me. Yes this season wasn't as full of twists as the previous two. yes this season was slower than the other two. yes this season focused on the White House and the presidency unlike the other 2 which had a wider focus. Yes this season was narrower in scope and focus than the previous 2. But the pace of the season was perfect. It kind of slowedOh man! The negative reviews just irritate me. Yes this season wasn't as full of twists as the previous two. yes this season was slower than the other two. yes this season focused on the White House and the presidency unlike the other 2 which had a wider focus. Yes this season was narrower in scope and focus than the previous 2. But the pace of the season was perfect. It kind of slowed things down to reveal the dynamics of Frank Underwood's relationships. The other seasons never really explored why Frank had the relationships he had with the other characters; they just presented those relationships and we were meant to just go with it. In this season, we see how the relationships were built (Thomas yates) and were broken down (Claire Underwood, Remy, and Tom yates) and rebuilt (Doug, the Ribs guy). This season was a deliberate attempt for us to observe how the relationships were created and how they were broken down firsthand. This is not Suits or any other overly dramatic show. it's not every season/episode that we need crazy twists and overblown drama. Sometimes a show requires a bit of slowing down to let you meet and understand the characters. For those who said it was boring or focused on the presidency, Shame on You. Go watch Suits or Vampire Diaries if you want constant unrealistically sensationalized drama. The show will probably return to the usual pace next season but this season was necessary to create a realistic atmosphere for the rest of the season.… Expand
  12. Orw
    Mar 2, 2015
    10
    Great scripts, deeper characters and, as usual, astonishing performances from both Kevin Spacey, Robin Wright, and with Michael Kelly (Doug). Can't wait to see what will happen on season 4.
  13. buffnfaith
    Mar 4, 2015
    8
    Though not as good as season 1, season 3 is better than season 2 as now president Underwood continues to tackle his enemies in a ruthless manner with Spacey's portrayal of Underwood better than ever. Be prepared for more turnoil and stronger opposition from all fronts this season. Robin Wright and Michael Kelly especially shine in the supporting cast.
  14. SchroederRock
    Apr 2, 2015
    9
    The struggles of a president that nobody elected are on blast in the third season of House of Cards. The struggles between congress and the executive branch are interwoven with a drama between Frank and Clare Underwood that finally come to light after all the lies and work done to get to the head of the table. House of Cards is as good as ever, though season 3's best moments are foundThe struggles of a president that nobody elected are on blast in the third season of House of Cards. The struggles between congress and the executive branch are interwoven with a drama between Frank and Clare Underwood that finally come to light after all the lies and work done to get to the head of the table. House of Cards is as good as ever, though season 3's best moments are found beyond the first few episodes. When all is said and done, a fourth season is not only guaranteed but also more intriguing than ever. It's no longer the earning of the presidency that is the hook of the show, but Frank Underwood holding to that presidency while some of his most loyal allies are jumping ship.… Expand
  15. mrwho995
    Mar 4, 2015
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. i was disappointed with this season. It felt like a soap opera at times, and you can't really compare the season 2 finale, becoming the president, to the season 3 finale, a divorce, in terms of scope. It felt like there was a lot of filler and that there was less plot progression or big events than previous seasons, and Frank was a little all over the place as a character, seeming to feel genuine guilt and compassion one second and being a complete sociopath the next. The writer story arc went nowhere, nothing really worked with Remy's character, and things generally moved far too slowly. There were a few strong episodes and no real duds like there were half way through season 1, but I wasn't too impressed. It was still good TV, but nothing to get too exited about.… Expand
  16. ParagonMichael
    Mar 11, 2015
    8
    I thought they couldn't make a season 3, but then they went on and did it. Safe to say that i was kind of impressed by how good the season managed too be.
  17. callumjsouth
    Aug 6, 2015
    7
    The Underwoods are finally where they want to be and this is both a positive and a negative. Their position takes away what was a hugely captivating part of the first two seasons, getting to see them scheme and snake episode after episode as they completed their jigsaw one piece at a time. Now that the jigsaw is complete you would be forgiven for believing that there is not really muchThe Underwoods are finally where they want to be and this is both a positive and a negative. Their position takes away what was a hugely captivating part of the first two seasons, getting to see them scheme and snake episode after episode as they completed their jigsaw one piece at a time. Now that the jigsaw is complete you would be forgiven for believing that there is not really much point anymore. However it is actually very entertaining to see the Underwoods attempt to hold the jigsaw together. We finally get to see them in a vulnerable position. Ironic considering they are the world's most important couple. This evolving characterisation is essential in a good drama and is evidence of the class present in this show. We get less Underwood and fourth wall breaking which is disappointing however it is only a minor nuisance considering how rich this show is both in content and character.… Expand
  18. TheApplegnome
    Jul 5, 2016
    8
    House of Cards continues to shine with its entertaining perspective on politics, but mostly -- characters. Season 3 got splendid inside to what drives specific characters. Much drama is a constant trait -- what you have to do to be sucessful, what you risk to loose, and what you can win. Fight -- don’t give up -- let it beat you and rise up from the ashes! House of Cards can be full ofHouse of Cards continues to shine with its entertaining perspective on politics, but mostly -- characters. Season 3 got splendid inside to what drives specific characters. Much drama is a constant trait -- what you have to do to be sucessful, what you risk to loose, and what you can win. Fight -- don’t give up -- let it beat you and rise up from the ashes! House of Cards can be full of positivity, but also despair and loss. Real in life events -- or at least similarities to such events is something new to the show and S03 is full of it! It’s a clever and wanted aspect to the show and we finally get even more linkage to the story! This is a pure drama-flick that’s full of personal dilemmas -- and yes not every episode is that cleverly written nor full of excitement. But It’s really something for the drama lover!

    Overall personal rating for each episode: 76.8/100

    Personal rating: 80/100
    Critical rating: 90/100    … Expand
  19. NRNSW
    Sep 13, 2015
    8
    This great series continues to entertain, there was probably one or two episodes that were a little slow. But that happens in any TV series. Worth the time.
  20. esm
    Jun 19, 2015
    8
    House of Cards can be described with one word "brilliant". This T.V series shows us how the rest of the T.V drama series should be. Beau Willimon knows how to keep you interested in the series. The actors are just the best that you could find in a series right now. Kevin Spacey does a great job and Robin Wright looks brilliant in the T.V series but I think that in all the seasons the leastHouse of Cards can be described with one word "brilliant". This T.V series shows us how the rest of the T.V drama series should be. Beau Willimon knows how to keep you interested in the series. The actors are just the best that you could find in a series right now. Kevin Spacey does a great job and Robin Wright looks brilliant in the T.V series but I think that in all the seasons the least good was this one. Sure the problems with Viktor keep you interested but I think that this series can be resumed in 10 chapters. I have the feeling that they make the chapters longer than should be because I find a lot of scenes that could be resumed for more story specially the season finale. I hope that the next season be better. I can´t wait to watch the next season… Expand
  21. bruninho79
    Jan 31, 2016
    9
    I have watched the three seasons of this serie recently and I just love this tv show, it's awesome and have driven me crazy, it's really awesome and Kevin and Robin are incredible actors.
  22. SrPepe
    Mar 3, 2018
    8
    He seguido este espectáculo desde el principio. El valor de producción es excelente. La actuación es al menos buena y, a menudo excelente. La trama es demasiado divertida si está oscura. Es suficiente para que uno se pregunte qué es lo que realmente están haciendo los "líderes" en Washington. El único defecto realmente horrible es el patético intento de Kevin Spacey por el acento sureño.
  23. alejandro970
    Dec 9, 2016
    9
    Underwood, hhe machiavellian antihero realizes the absolut power has a higher price to pay. Loss of faith, moral dilemmas, and an imminent fracture on the own White House.
  24. KelvinSelimor
    Dec 6, 2020
    10
    House of Cards. Season 3. Power is in the hands. A more intriguing and enticing season. Claire Underwood comes to the fore more showing what kind of person she really is. I liked the performance of Russian President Viktor Petrov very much, very similar to the acting one. Also, great intrigues, unexpected moves and all that is remarkable about the House of Cards series.
  25. Felindie
    Jul 15, 2019
    8
    Season three may no be the better, but brings some moments, especially the cast, as Kevin and Robin keep shining.
  26. Maarten95
    Feb 17, 2019
    7
    This season was a bit of a step back. The doug and remy story arc was dull and couldn't fill the void left by the abscene of places like Freddy's ribbar. Kevin Spacey was great again but there are just to few scenes with him. The struggle for the election isn't that great because there isn't anyone that can stand against Kevin Spacey. Maybe thats the biggest problem with this season. TheThis season was a bit of a step back. The doug and remy story arc was dull and couldn't fill the void left by the abscene of places like Freddy's ribbar. Kevin Spacey was great again but there are just to few scenes with him. The struggle for the election isn't that great because there isn't anyone that can stand against Kevin Spacey. Maybe thats the biggest problem with this season. The character Frank Underwood has become so great that everything else feels very dull.… Expand

Awards & Rankings

58
#58 Best TV Season of 2015
20
#20 Most Discussed TV Season of 2015
69
#69 Most Shared TV Season of 2015

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
76

Generally favorable reviews - based on 24 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 21 out of 24
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 24
  3. Negative: 0 out of 24
  1. Uncle Barky
    Reviewed by: Ed Bark
    Mar 12, 2015
    91
    Whatever your takeaway, the performances of Spacey and Wright remain assured and now ingrained in a series that ranks as the best body politic drama ever.
    Read full review
  2. Slant Magazine
    Reviewed by: Chris Cabin
    Mar 4, 2015
    63
    House of Cards is at its best when investigating the uneasy balance of studied, built-up political performance and personal dogmas, obsessions, gripes, and fears, but as many of these masks begin to give way in the story, the series noticeably struggles to keep up its addictive tension.
    Read full review
  3. PopMatters
    Reviewed by: Evan Sawdey
    Mar 3, 2015
    70
    Ultimately, House of Cards Season Three is a great continuation of a show that remains deliciously dramatic even with a few glaring flaws.
    Read full review
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