Underrated Showtime Drama returns


"Maybe that’s the key, to let go of some ideal. To live the life that you have, not the life that you thought you would have. To finally just accept what is." — Libby, "Masters of Sex"

Showtime has had some rough times with show development in recent years. With a number of familiar shows retiring, they've been looking for that second wave that would capture the attention of the public. It hasn't quite happened that way.

But it doesn't mean they haven't landed on a few interesting series, such as "Masters of Sex," which returns for its third season on Sunday, July 12. Showtime made the third season premier available early, but it's not the same show. And I can't help but wonder if that's a product of it being on the bubble.

I loved the first season of "Masters of Sex." While the content is sometimes salacious, it was the performances from leads Lizzy Caplan and Michael Sheen that brought it to life. It's brought some award nominations and plenty of critical acclaim, but not much in the way of ratings.

After a captivating and moving first season, I felt "Masters" struggled some in its second season. There were still excellent moments — such as the "Fight" episode — but it was bogged down by time jumps and not enough forward momentum. I remained hopeful the show would find its way again in the third season.

However, the premier takes another time jump — this time to 1965 — bringing a whole new set of family drama. But the episode felt a little uneven and bounced around, despite the great acting. I still love the performances, and I still see something in the show, but I'm concerned that these constant time jumps deprive the narrative of continuity moving forward.

And that's not going to help it capture an audience.

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