However, the tonal hesitance of this first episode back may simply be a result of the writers catching viewers up to where the characters are since we last left them, rather than evidence that the show at large has lost its mojo. After all, drama needs to simmer before it can reach a full boil – and a soap like The Fosters knows this. With Stef’s storyline, Callie’s budding romantic and professional relationships, and the return of Jesus and Lexi, “First Impressions” does effectively lay the groundwork for an exciting season, despite not being particularly thrilling itself.
That being said, it’s somewhat fitting that the episode lacks steam – as it allows for the smaller moments, which The Fosters executes thoughtfully, as always – to truly shine. This is due in part to Maia Mitchell, whose portrayal of Callie continues to feel unfailingly honest, even as the character has lost some of her sass and gained a little pretention. Mitchell’s Callie has a natural chemistry with both AJ and Brandon, and this is particularly evident when Brandon confides in Callie about being approached by the Julliard recruiter. As Callie straightens her hair in the bathroom, the two discuss the event with shock and laughter just as real teenagers would – without elevated dialogue or extended moody glances.
This feeling is echoed throughout the episode in moments such as Brandon teasing Jesus about the ex-girlfriend brigade he finds in the Foster living room, and Emma storming out of the home, jealous of the way Lexi has seamlessly worked her way back into Mariana’s life. These scenes carry the humor and sensitivity that real teenagers would bring to those situations, and help to infuse the show with an added level of authenticity that its teenage audience can surely connect with.
As the season continues, certain events are sure to make waves throughout the family. In its premiere, the show uses a storytelling choice that lines up perfectly with its continued attempts to treat issues that affect a wide range of families with realism instead of reaching for over-the-top melodrama or putting a glossy sheen on a traumatic event.
It seems as though The Fosters will also address the financial strain that comes with medical treatment in the United States – an aspect of this suffering that many shows who have depicted such storylines within the scope of a family drama have ignored.
Coming into the second half of its third season, The Fosters proves why it has been such an interesting addition to the teen drama genre. The show’s attempt reflect the diversity of America and portray familial and romantic relationships that are not often seen onscreen is echoed in the interactions of its core characters, who speak and act like real teenagers rather than comedy writers. With that in mind, hopefully as the season progresses The Fosters can refocus on not just being the best drama it can be on paper – but also retain its identity as a show that is as entertaining as it is progressive.
Good
With a slow start to the season, hopefully The Fosters will begin capitalize on the groundwork it has laid and retain its identity as a series that is as entertaining as it is progressive.
The Fosters Season 3B Review