Season 3 of the FX anthology series Fargo presents a compelling crime narrative featuring Ewan McGregor in two distinct leading roles. The ten-part season, inspired by the Coen brothers' 1996 film, explores similar themes of ordinary people entangled with criminal elements in Minnesota, but season 3 leans into a particular brand of ambitious weirdness that makes it an ideal candidate for a weekend binge.
The season's plot centers on the Stussy brothers, twins who have taken vastly different paths in life. Emmit, portrayed by McGregor, is a successful "Parking Lot King of Minnesota" and a seemingly well-adjusted family man. His twin, Ray, also played by McGregor, is a parole officer struggling with financial difficulties and harbors resentment towards his brother, believing Emmit unfairly benefited from their inheritance. Their lives become further complicated when Ray blackmails a parolee into stealing Emmit's prized stamp collection to fund an engagement ring for his girlfriend, Nikki Swango, a parolee herself. Concurrently, a mysterious and sinister figure named V. M. Varga, played by David Thewlis, arrives to collect on a debt Emmit owes to a shadowy organization.
Despite a premise that might suggest a standard crime thriller, Fargo season 3 distinguishes itself through its unique execution. Ewan McGregor delivers a standout performance, fully inhabiting both the affluent Emmit and the disheveled Ray. His commitment to the roles is evident, particularly in his enjoyment of the thick Minnesota accent and the subtle, yet distinct, differences he brings to each character. A particularly memorable sequence involves Ray disguising himself as Emmit using a poorly chosen wig.
The supporting cast also contributes significantly to the season's impact. David Thewlis is captivating as V. M. Varga, presenting a chilling antagonist whose disturbing pronouncements on societal decay underscore the character's malevolent influence as he systematically dismantles Emmit's business. Russell Harvard returns as the memorable deaf assassin Mr. Wrench, a character who previously appeared in season 1. Mary Elizabeth Winstead also delivers a strong performance as Nikki Swango, a character who encourages Ray's worst impulses.
As is characteristic of the series, season 3 is replete with unexpected plot twists and sudden character deaths. The season also incorporates a dark humor that aligns with the Coen brothers' cinematic style, at times venturing into territory similar to their 2008 film Burn After Reading.
While season 2 is often cited as the series' strongest installment and season 1 as the most faithful to the original film, season 3 stands out for its sheer peculiarity. Even considering the presence of a UFO in season 2, this third season embraces a level of strangeness that defines its viewing experience.
All seasons of Fargo are currently available for streaming on Hulu.