Episode 3 of Monarch’s Legacy of Monsters surpasses all previous episodes, featuring high stakes, impressive action, and a rollercoaster of emotions with multiple secrets and lies. Titled 'Secrets and Lies,' the episode picks up where Episode 2 left off, with old Lee Shaw, played by Kurt Russell, escaping from his retirement home/prison.
Accompanied by Kentaro, Keiko, and May, Shaw skillfully maneuvers the vehicle to evade his pursuers before assuming the identity of the younger Lee Shaw, portrayed by Kurt’s son Wyatt Russell. We once again shift back and forth in time to see Junior Lee Shaw joining the Monarch organization while Senior Lee Shaw attempts to break free from its grasp.
Secrets and Lies in the 1950s
During the 1950s storyline, Lee informs Bill and Cate that in order to keep their "monster-hunting club" going, they must have the support of the military. As a result, the three of them arrange a meeting with General Pucket (played by Christopher Heyerdahl) and present to him the enormous footprint they discovered.
The scientists seek to attract the creature responsible for the imprint by requesting 150 pounds of Uranium, believing that it thrives on radiation. However, the discussion shifts when the conversation turns to the monster posing a significant threat to worldwide security.
In a surprising turn, the scientists find themselves agreeing to a plan with the US military, who see the creature as a danger and opt to destroy it rather than study it. As a result, a bomb is constructed, loaded with Uranium, and detonated from a distance as the military observes from Bikini Atoll.
Despite Cate's efforts to prevent the destruction of something they don't fully understand, she is unable to stop the apparent Godzilla from being blown up. Before the explosion, there is remarkable footage of the MUTO captured on a 1950s camera, reminiscent of the original Toho movies.
Feeling deceived, Lee, Bill, and Cate choose to withhold information from the military in exchange for the General's blank check. However, they also agree to keep him in the dark, setting the stage for a collision between the two parties.
Monsters and mayhem him the 2010s
60 years later, Monarch has shifted its focus from monsters to chasing the heroes, showcasing the organization's downfall. The group sets off for South Korea in search of Hiro, Lee's friend and Kentaro and Keiko's father, and is intercepted by Shaw's associate in customs. They then travel to Alaska by vintage plane, the last known location of their missing companion.
After narrowly avoiding a crash into the mountain, they touch down on the snow and discover Hiro's plane, but the body in the cockpit is not Hiro. As they search, they come across a tent with Hiro's belongings, including his trademark pencil shavings, but Hiro is nowhere to be found.
This leads to the second encounter with a monster in the episode, and it is a truly spectacular and intense moment as a new MUTO is introduced, putting the team in immediate danger. A dramatic end to Episode 3.
Monarch: Legacy of Monsters Episode 3 review – 4/5
'Secrets and Lies' stands as the pinnacle of Monarch: Legacy of Monsters, marking the first occasion where both historical and contemporary plotlines captivate the audience. The blend of compelling action and intriguing mystery makes it a standout installment.
Find out how Lee Shaw manages to look so young despite being in his 90s. Kurt Russell responds with a charming smile, attributing it to "good genes." Catch Monarch, Legacy of Monsters on Apple TV+ and click below for more reviews.
Editor's P/S
As a Gen Z fan, I am thrilled to see the release of Monarch: Legacy of Monsters Episode 3, titled "Secrets and Lies." This episode is a thrilling rollercoaster ride that combines action, drama, and intrigue, leaving me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end.
The episode skillfully weaves together two timelines, the 1950s and the 2010s, showcasing the evolution of the Monarch organization and the ongoing battle against giant monsters. The introduction of the new MUTO in the present-day storyline adds an extra layer of excitement and danger, making the action sequences even more intense.