Everyone’s favorite congressman-turned-president is back and even more convincing in a brand new season of the Netflix hit “House of Cards.”

Season four takes place shortly after where season three left off, with Frank, played Kevin Spacey, traveling without his wife Claire, played by Robin Wright, to campaign for the 2016 presidential primaries. The new season brings more scheming and drama than any season before it.

The show seems to have finally embraced a side it has been leaning toward for a while. “House of Cards” has virtually gone in the “soap opera” direction, which seems to have helped this season’s intent.

Season three was by far the worst of “House of Cards,” because the show seemed to be varying in its genre. It was unclear if “House of Cards” was continuing in the same political thriller vein as previous seasons, or if it was a drama about a failing marriage with a side of politics.

Season four pointed toward a soap opera, with one of the larger stories being the falling out and fight between Frank and Claire. However, while season four straightens out that aspect, it seems to fail in others.

Season four had no collective story arc, but felt more like three miniature story arcs squished together to form a 13-episode season. The first half of the season served as Claire vs. Frank while the second half served as “Will they get the nomination?” The last three episodes served as a separate arc entirely.

Despite the confusion in story arcs and aim, Robin Wright and Kevin Spacey are stronger than ever. While audiences may be scratching their heads, the performances are still captivating. “House of Cards” demands binge-watching.

Is “House of Cards” losing its stamina? The last two seasons may be pointing to “yes,” but fans cannot help but watch the downfall happen one episode at a time.

Season four is now streaming on Netflix.

Share