The highly anticipated third season of “The Summer I Turned Pretty” has premiered, but early reactions suggest that even chart-topping hits from Taylor Swift and BTS’ V can’t save its ‘frustrating’ start and the ‘cringe’ chemistry between Belly and Jeremiah.
A Four-Year Jump and Familiar Woes
After a four-year wait, fans hoped for a fresh start, but Season 3 seems to dive right back into the same old love triangle. The show picks up with a significant time jump, finding Belly in her junior year at Finch College, still navigating her complicated feelings for the Fisher brothers.
While the setting has shifted to college life, the core drama feels remarkably similar to previous seasons. Many viewers are finding it difficult to watch Belly still torn between Conrad, who’s at Stanford, and Jeremiah, whom she’s currently dating.
Jeremiah’s Cheating and a Rushed Proposal
One of the season’s early shockers involves Jeremiah confessing to cheating on Belly during spring break. His explanation, leaning on the classic “we were on a break” defense, has not landed well with audiences.
The situation escalates dramatically following an accident involving Belly’s brother, Steven. In a moment that feels unearned and sudden, Jeremiah proposes to Belly outside the hospital, and she accepts. This rushed engagement has left many book readers and viewers alike feeling confused and disappointed by the abrupt pacing.
Missing Chemistry and Flat Dialogue
Despite the show’s efforts to portray a maturing relationship, the on-screen chemistry between Belly and Jeremiah is noted as a significant weakness. Their interactions often feel forced, lacking the emotional depth needed to make their story believable.
Critics also point to flat dialogue and abrupt character decisions that prevent the story from feeling authentic. Even the talents of Gavin Casalegno (Jeremiah) and Christopher Briney (Conrad) seem underutilized, as they are often reduced to reacting rather than driving the plot forward.
The Soundtrack Steals the Show
Amidst the narrative struggles, the one consistent highlight of “The Summer I Turned Pretty” Season 3 is its stellar soundtrack. Music from artists like Taylor Swift, BTS’ V, Lana Del Rey, and The Cranberries perfectly complements various scenes, often capturing emotions that the dialogue struggles to convey.
BTS V’s ‘FRI(END)S)’ reportedly sets the tone for Taylor and Steven’s storyline, while Taylor Swift’s ‘You’re Losing Me’ provides a fitting backdrop for Belly’s discovery of Jeremiah’s infidelity. The thoughtful costume design also adds a subtle layer of storytelling, standing out as another positive element.
- Season 3 of “The Summer I Turned Pretty” has received mixed reviews, particularly for its initial episodes.
- A four-year time jump doesn’t resolve the core love triangle, which still feels underdeveloped.
- Jeremiah’s infidelity and a sudden proposal have been major points of contention for viewers.
- The on-screen chemistry between Belly and Jeremiah is widely criticized as lacking.
- The show’s soundtrack, featuring artists like Taylor Swift and BTS’ V, is a major highlight.
While the first two episodes have left many fans feeling frustrated, there’s hope that the season will find its footing and offer a more compelling narrative for Belly’s complex journey into adulthood.
