The 2-hour premiere of Z Nation season 3 titled, 'No Mercy,' is interestingly placed. It is a flashback 'movie' telling the story of an untold event that occurred in the middle of season 2.
Based on the characters involved, the episode follows the birth of Lucy in episode 2.05, 'Zombaby!,' and precedes the death of Cassandra in episode 2.06, 'Zombie Baby Daddy.' Yes, as you have all seen in the previews Cassandra returns, to the excitement of probably only a few fans. Though I must admit her animal like behaviour is quite amusing in small doses. Missing in action is Matt Cedeno's Vasquez who, it seems, will not be returning this season.
The episode's intent was to introduce us to some of the new characters joining the main cast. However, we really meet just one character, season 3's antagonist, The Man, portrayed by Joseph Gatt. There are a couple of other key people in this episode, though it seems they are just one off characters for the premiere. We do not get to meet the redeemed Escorpion, or Hector Alvarez as he now goes by, and Sydney Viengluang's new character, Sun Mei.
A full review will be up following the premiere, though some quick thoughts.
I'm not too sure two-hours was necessary to tell the story of this premiere. There were some entertaining moments, but there were also times when things just felt like they were drifting through the motions. The timing of the episode felt weird, but then again it was the only way the story could've been told with Team Bite Mark together, as they are now currently split up.
The tired theme of the pains of survival was the backbone for this episode and, as a result, the premiere was a tad bit more serious compared to what we've come to expect from Z Nation.
I have a feeling this will be quite the divisive premiere. Some will hate it, some will love it. I personally am not a fan of flashbacks, especially when it feels so out of place, but to each his own. There were definitely some kickass moments that fans will enjoy, and the episode does serve its purpose of setting up the upcoming season - how necessary it was to do it the way they did is the question.
More thoughts on the premiere in my review following Z Nation's 2-hour premiere, 8pm on Syfy!
