What We Do in the Shadows Review: The Prisoner/The Cloak of Duplication (Season 3 Episodes 1 and 2)
What We Do in the Shadows Season 3 Episodes 1 and 2, “The Prisoner” and “The Cloak of Duplication,” serve as the strongest opening for the FX comedy thus far. This show is firing on all cylinders, and it appears to be broadening the scope of material for Season 3.
“The Prisoner” continues to maintain the momentum established in the Season 2 finale. What We Do in the Shadows boasts one of the best casts on TV and, while its style of humor falls on the dry side, each performer brings something different comedically to the table.
NADJA: Thank you for saving us, but sorry, you’re our mortal enemy — you got to die, babes.
It’s the versatility of its roster and the diverse comedic approaches that make “The Prisoner” and “The Cloak of Duplication” so funny. From Laszlo’s brash yet laissez-faire attitude to Nadja’s charming obstinacy to Guillermo’s affable, sweet nature, these episodes properly showcase the talents of our core cast.
“The Cloak of Duplication” is the stronger of the two episodes, introducing more slapstick comedy and classic sitcom hijinks, especially with Nandor’s bid to win the affection of Meg, the receptionist at his gym. Nandor, Laszlo, and Colin Robinson’s approaches to wooing women are as varied as antiquated, making for some hysterical moments.
LASZLO: I became a vampire to suck blood and to f*** forever.
But perhaps the most intriguing aspect of the Season 3 openers is the internal conflict brewing within the group. While Season 1 and 2 mainly honed in on external threats toward the Staten Island vampires, now we’re seeing a shift, namely the competition between Nadja and Nandor for supreme ruler of the Vampiric Council.
Nadja ripping the heart out of the young, rogue vampire reveals a new ruthlessness to which we haven’t been privy.
What We Do in the Shadows is constantly fleshing out these characters and proving that even ancient vampires are capable of evolving. It’s the mark of brilliant writing and masterful performances.
“The Prisoner” and “The Cloak of Duplication” introduces exciting new plot threads, keeping the show fresh and interesting.
Whether it’s Nandor’s discontent with his love life or Guillermo’s addressed feelings for his Master, Colin Robinson’s curiosity regarding his origins, or Nadja’s quest for power, What We Do in the Shadows knows how to quench its audience’s thirst for blood with solid-as-a-rock writing.
NANDOR: The plan is that I, Nandor the Relentless, will sit on my throne and make a number two.
This season opener is evidence that this is a true ensemble series. Each performer is equally brilliant in their own right. Their chemistry is palpable, and they seamlessly work together like moving parts in a well-oiled machine.
Even seemingly “throwaway” dialogue is just as hysterical and proof that anything and everything is comedy gold with this talented cast.
COLIN ROBINSON: Was I turned or, in the words of Stefani Germanotta, was I born this way?
“The Prisoner” and “The Cloak of Duplication” are solid, laugh-out-loud entries for What We Do in the Shadows‘ third season. Bolstered by top-tier performances, great writing, and clever jokes, this opener kicks everything off with a fang (Get it?). BAT!
What did you think of this episode of What We Do in the Shadows? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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What We Do in the Shadows airs Thursdays at 10/9c on FX.
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Melody McCune
Melody loves TV. Maybe too much. Besides being a Senior Writer for Tell-Tale TV, she's the Managing Editor for Geek Girl Authority, an Independent Contractor for Sideshow Collectibles, and a Senior Writer for Eulalie Magazine. Additionally, she has bylines in Culturess, Widget, and inkMend on Medium. To top it all off, she's a critic for Rotten Tomatoes and CherryPicks.