The Handmaid's Tale has turned into a fantasy show

io9

"The season three finale of The Handmaid’s Tale is powerful and tense, but not for the reasons the show used to be powerful and tense," says Beth Elderkin. "It’s changed from a dystopian nightmare to a revenge fantasy. This is the moment viewers have to decide if they’re going to stay and enjoy the ride, as it’s already been renewed for a fourth season, or get off the plane. There’s no going back after 'Mayday.'" Elderkin adds that where the show goes in Season 4 shouldn't be predictable, but it is. "This is the world The Handmaid’s Tale lives in now," says Elderkin. "It’s a fantasy. Granted, it’s a fantasy that makes you feel good, like our heroes are doing something worthwhile, but it’s a fantasy nonetheless. It’s okay to enjoy the ride because it’s hopeful instead of depressing. But it does mar the series. The fear that made it so powerful and palpable is gone, replaced by James Bond in a red cloak and wings. Blessed Be the Fight, because we already know who’s going to win."

ALSO:

• The Handmaid's Tale's Season 3 finale was surprisingly satisfying after a messy season
• The Handmaid's Tale needs to come up with a new plot twist
• The season finale was the show at its best and worst: A mostly cohesive, mostly effective finale for an uneven season
• It's time for The Handmaid's Tale to let June die
• Let's wrap up this torture party: Why The Handmaid's Tale should call it quits after Season 4
• Bring back flashbacks!: Five things The Handmaid's Tale needs to fix for Season 4
• 13 times The Handmaid's Tale went wrong this season