Reflections on the Ending of '13 Reasons Why' Season 3: A Realistic and Redemption-Oriented Conclusion

In my view, the ending of '13 Reasons Why' Season 3 is a poignant and realistic representation of life. The characters, particularly Bryce Walker and Montgomery De La Cruz, face consequences that echo the realities we often encounter. It is a stark reminder that actions have inevitable consequences, altering the course of one's life, and that redemption is never impossible but always challenging.

Realism and Consequences

The demise of both Bryce and Monty before they could fully repent realistically reflects the human experience. Life is unpredictable, and individuals may fall back into old patterns, losing the chance for redemption. These characters' fates are a somber but true representation of the struggles we all may face. Despite their efforts, time may run out, and past actions can haunt them, leading to untimely ends.

Redemption and Unfulfilled Arcs

The message of the season highlights the importance of accepting the consequences of one's actions and striving for redemption. Actions have an impact that cannot be erased, and this journey towards making amends is never easy but always possible. It's a call to stay focused, knowing that every moment counts and the consequences of our choices can shorten our lives.

Character Development: Clay and Ani

While the season offers valuable lessons, my feelings towards the ending have been mixed, especially regarding characters like Ani and Clay.

On Ani: Her storyline is complex, and while her actions are understandable, her ultimate fate left me unsatisfied. Ani manipulated the narrative to suit her purposes, but in a perfectly rational manner. The fall guy in a successful crime is always convenient, and Ani, with her influential connections, seemed to be the perfect choice, as she had already faced jail time. Yet, I wish the creators had given Monty the same chance to find redemption.

Monty's character arc started as a minor and then evolved into a prominent antagonist. His journey, from playing video games with Alex in season one to the graphic scenes of violence and manipulation in season two, paints a picture of someone who values chaos and destruction. Despite his flaws, his transformation in season three to someone who seeks acceptance and redemption was welcome. The fact that his actor never changed suggests the creators had a long-term vision for his character.

Clay's Journey: From Yearning to Belonging

Clay Jensen's journey from the first season, where he desperately yearned for Hannah, through the second season, where he faced loss, to the third season, where he finally found a girlfriend, encapsulates a three-season arc of emotional growth and acceptance. Clay's relationship with Ani, however, left me feeling ambivalent. Clay's resolution to stay true to Hannah's memory and his subsequent relationship with Ani felt forced and anticlimactic.

Ultimately, the ending of '13 Reasons Why' Season 3 is a multifaceted exploration of life's complexities, human frailty, and the relentless pursuit of redemption. It serves as a reminder that while the road to redemption may be challenging, it is always possible.