A Series Of Unfortunate Events Season 3 Review: 6 Ups & 3 Downs

4. Neil Patrick Harris' Killer Performance

A Series Of Unfortunate Events Neil Patrick Harris
Netflix

Neil Patrick Harris' performance as Count Olaf has proven hugely divisive among fans of the source material, with some considering it too silly and not as menacing as Jim Carrey's much-loved turn in the 2004 movie.

But season three just might be his best acting showcase so far, dialling down the camp somewhat - especially the much-criticised musical numbers - and making Olaf a progressively more pitiable figure.

Harris sells Olaf's desperation to acquire the Baudelaire fortune splendidly, yet even in its more sentimental moments, neither the writing nor Harris' performance makes an over-eager plea for the audience to view Olaf as a tragic figure.

Harris has been the show's anchor since day one, and he carries it to the finish line with free-wheeling aplomb.

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Stay at home dad who spends as much time teaching his kids the merits of Martin Scorsese as possible (against the missus' wishes). General video game, TV and film nut. Occasional sports fan. Full time loon.