Vikings is a show that improves with age. The third season was the strongest yet. Ragnar Lothbrok’s victories are no longer a foregone conclusion. Even his successes have seeds of future destruction. I don’t want to give away anything, but the third season of Vikings is plagued with more uncertainties for each character. Vikings also ups the ante battle-wise because King Ecbert isn’t the only foreign king that Lothbrok must confront. The other kings are perfect foils for Ragnar, and each side’s story is equally interesting. Vikings is consistent with its characters and gender politics. Lagertha is simultaneously bad-ass, but is unfortunately more protected in battle than fighting. Another shield maiden only obsesses about her spoiled looks after a battle. Rollo is still ambiguous-will he or won’t he betray his brother? Floki and Ragnar are still the wild cards serving their own agenda. If you’ve never seen Vikings, skip the first season, start with the second and knock out the third season in a weekend.