If you haven’t been watching Cobra Kai, I have to ask what rock you’ve been living under. Also, stop reading this review now because there will be minor spoilers about the previous 2 seasons which set up the events of season 3. Also know that I will be doing my best to avoid any major spoilers from season 3 though there may be a few minor points.

The season picks up shortly after the tragic events of season 2 which left Miguel in a hospital bed after the rumble in the school between the 2 warring dojos. Johnny’s lost his beloved business to his old sensei John Kreese, Robby is MIA running from the law, Sam has PTSD after the rumble and her fight with Tori, Johnny(and Miguel’s mother… and pretty well everyone else) blames himself for what happened to Miguel leaving him in a coma in the hospital.

The tone for Season 3 shifts a bit from what the previous 2 had done. It’s a bit darker and dreary. That’s not to say there isn’t still some great humor to be found, because Johnny is still Johnny and he has some antiquated ways about doing things and it’s hilarious to see him utilize what he knows in a modern setting. There are a lot of stories and side stories happening in season 3. The complex relationship between Daniel and Johnny and how they actually might be more similar to one another than they care to admit. We even get a peek into what actually makes John Kreese tick – which I found to be a bit perplexing because it almost feels like they want you to be sympathetic toward the Vietnam veteran and where he’s been.

I’ve watched season 3 twice now. I had a blast watching but I can’t say that this was the strongest season thus far. I was absolutely pumped up about the cameos, which I think have been spoiled in the trailers but will keep them out of the review for the readers/viewers. Johnny (William Zabka) remains outstanding in every sense of the word. I just love what he’s done with his character. I’m excited as hell for the 4th season but given how the season finishes, I have a sneaking suspicion that the 4th will the the series’ swan song(and maybe that’s OK) unless the writers room can come up with something compelling to keep the show moving forward in any meaningful way.

Kaneda