Leverage Redemption Season 3 Episode 10 Review: Parker Shines but Feels Like an Encore

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Warning: This post contains spoilers for Leverage: Redemption Season 3, Episode 10.

In the third season of “Leverage: Redemption”, the narrative has shifted its primary focus from Sophie (Gina Bellman) and Harry (Noah Wyle), who were more central in the first two seasons, to Parker (Beth Riesgraf). The climactic episode, titled “The Side Job”, serves as a conclusion to the season’s exploration of Parker’s character. Although other main characters are present in this episode, it is essentially Parker’s story, effectively showcasing Riesgraf’s acting skills.

In this installment, Parker orchestrates a deception against a man (Ricardo S. Chavira) who exploits underage workers from undocumented immigrants’ children. Given the current climate of intensified searches for undocumented individuals and lax child labor regulations in many states, this plotline is strikingly pertinent. Furthermore, it serves as a fitting platform for Parker, who has a deep empathy towards mistreated kids, to explore her passion on these contentious issues.
The episode showcases daring artistic choices and highlights the evolution of Parker’s character while preserving the unique charm that endeears her to us.

Parker As A Film Noir Femme Fatale Is An Inspired Choice

The Episode Breaks The Usual Format

In both Leverage and its sequel series Leverage: Redemption, the episodes typically follow a similar structure: a new client narrates their tale of being swindled, the Leverage team agrees to help them, and they execute an intricate scheme that appears on the verge of collapse. This time around, however, we find ourselves in the midst of a con that Parker is executing solo. The con is indicated by it unfolding in black and white.

Indeed, Parker intentionally bases her cunning persona and acting role on the classic film noir femmes fatales. She traces this inspiration back to the vintage films that the original series’ character Nate was fond of. This serves as a subtle nod to the audience that they still pine for the absent mastermind behind their schemes, even though the show has effectively adapted without him. Furthermore, it provides an excellent platform for Risegraf to demonstrate her acting prowess and takes an artistic gamble that proves beneficial to the narrative.

In this episode, Parker’s portrayal stands out remarkably well-suited to her character. To convincingly pull off a lengthy con, she meticulously adjusts every aspect of her behavior, even subtly altering her voice for maximum believability. It’s captivating to see Riesgraf delve into this role so deeply. This is quite the transformation from the young woman who resorted to using a fork against an unwanted suitor in season 1 of the initial series.

Breaking down the episode into the stark contrast between the black-and-white “con” and vibrant “reality” not only enriches the overall episode, but also amplifies the gritty, noir aspects of Parker’s personality.

Parker’s “Something Like That” Reconfirms Her Commitment To Leverage International

Parker’s “Goodness” Is Still A Little Dark

During the entire episode, the team ponders the reason behind Parker’s solo scheme and her unique approach to it. At various stages, Parker involves each member of the team in this deception, sparking conversations about the motive behind it all. Sophie suspects that Parker seeks the thrill from spontaneously executing an unforeseen con; Breanna believes that Parker aims to modernize outdated cons; and Harry (played by Noah Wyle) assumes that Parker is trying to explore why people transform through the process of pulling the con itself.

Every time, Parker gives an ambiguous response such as “something along those lines,” and only after the job is completed do we discover her true motivation. This exchange between Parker and Hardison (Aldis Hodge) from the beginning of the season takes on a new significance when she decides to take a break, unsure about her continued participation in the field. Both characters grapple with the question of why they engage in their line of work – crime for the greater good – and here, Parker provides her explanation, backed up by a presentation and a folder filled with data for Hardison.

The incident serves as a clear indication that Parker, unlike her teammates, has always had an unusual streak. She’s never been adept at deciphering her emotions, yet crime fascinated her. These unique traits of hers give the impression that the shadowy side within her is drawing her into a dangerous spiral during the heist, as she contemplates murdering the target. Eliot (Christian Kane) extends his unwavering support to her in this critical moment.

Though the scene where Parker appears threatening towards a man seems genuine to both her and the audience, it’s actually a part of the scam, not an instance of Parker losing control. Instead, what we see is Parker using her darker side to help others, which is something she genuinely enjoys. Despite the mystery behind her motivations, we admire Parker for this very reason.

The bond between Eliot and Parker is beautifully highlighted in this episode. Despite Parker’s uncanny ability to foresee her teammates’ actions, she trusts Eliot more than anyone else to understand her better. She believes he will accompany Harry to ensure his safety, monitor both her phone and the mark, and should she find herself in trouble, he is the one who would step in to prevent a fall.

“The Side Job” Does Not Feel Like A Finale

It Feels Like There Is More For The Show To Do

In “The Side Job” episode, while themes of redemption are strong and Parker leaves the mark stranded in Colombia to foster empathy, this installment doesn’t read as the season finale. Typically, in Leverage series finales, an old adversary resurfaces, and the team wraps up a significant aspect from their past. This episode deviates from that formula.

Rather than wrapping up, the narrative seems to be continuing, with Harry’s side plot about reconnecting with his mother and establishing boundaries still in progress. His intention of introducing Sophie to his mother serves as a touching moment between them, but it also sets the stage for a potential new storyline that we don’t get to explore further, which is not typical of Leverage‘s endings.

In essence, “The Grand Complication Job” episode from the series seemed more akin to a season finale than the current one, due to its resolution of past plotlines and reintroduction of familiar characters. Interestingly, that episode lacked some key cast members. However, in this latest installment, it’s refreshing to have everyone back, including recurring special guests like Wyle and Hodge, who are integral to the team this season.

The Side Jump” truly showcases the abilities of Risegraf in an innovative episode structure, providing a thrilling experience. It leaves me yearning for more of “Leverage: Redemption” and anxiously awaiting the arrival of season 4.

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2025-06-05 10:18