WARNING: SPOILERS ahead for Reacher season 3, episode 8.

The thrilling finale of Prime Video’s <em>Reacher</em> season 3, episode 8, titled “Unfinished Business,” delivers an exhilarating conclusion to a season that has seen its highs and lows. The excitement of the opening episode gave way to some pacing issues in the latter half, especially in Reacher season 3, episode 7, which felt sluggish. Thankfully, the finale revitalized the season with an immersive, intense narrative that was almost incredibly satisfying to watch unfold.

In a surprising twist, Zachary Beck emerges as more of a victim than the anticipated Reacher season 3 antagonist. He joins forces with Reacher, Duffy, and Villanueva in a heartfelt mission to rescue his troubled but endearing son. It’s refreshing to finally witness Duffy and Reacher working collaboratively, especially given their historically fraught interactions that were often filled with emotional tension and conflict. While I appreciated Duffy’s pragmatic approach this season, her somewhat passive-aggressive manner makes her a less favorable sidekick compared to others in the Reacher series.

The Anticipated Final Showdown Between Reacher and Paulie Delivers a Thrilling Experience

At last, the long-awaited confrontation between Reacher and Paulie unfolds in a gritty and creatively choreographed fight sequence, a moment that fans have been yearning for throughout the season. The real tragedy of Reacher season 3 lies in the underutilization of Paulie, who was kept simmering on the sidelines for far too long. Fortunately, the finale redeems this delay as their clash becomes one of the most memorable highlights of the entire season.

Additionally, Neagley makes a clever entrance as an undercover waitress in the finale, enhancing the adaptation of Lee Child’s Persuader novel. Meanwhile, Villanueva faces a grim fate against one of Quinn’s guards early in the episode, yet surprisingly manages to survive the season. As the intense battle between Paulie and Reacher escalates, the scene of Reacher breaking free from a chainlink noose, armed with a garden rake, becomes one of the standout moments in Reacher season 3.

The underwater elements incorporated into the showdown between Paulie and Reacher add an exhilarating dimension to the action, creating a thrilling climax that gives the impression of Paulie’s demise. However, when Paulie resurfaces in his security hut, armed with a menacing machine gun, it genuinely feels as if Reacher has met his match. Ultimately, Reacher’s cunning and intelligence triumph over Paulie’s brute strength, but Reacher is still compelled to double-check to ensure the formidable Paulie is truly defeated.

My Disappointment with Reacher’s Confrontation with Quinn: A Missed Opportunity

Beck had Quinn right where he wanted him, but an unfortunate twist of fate left him in a compromised position, sacrificing himself while rekindling his relationship with his son at the last possible moment. Quinn’s terrifying demeanor is exemplified when he ruthlessly shoots Beck multiple times, which should have set the stage for a more impactful demise in the final moments of Reacher season 3.

Neagley’s dramatic entrance with a grenade was satisfying and elevated her character’s cool factor, yet it would have been even more gratifying if Reacher had taken decisive action against Quinn for his heinous acts towards Lt. Dominique Kohl. In a poignant moment, Reacher reminds Quinn of Dominique, seemingly breaking through his fog of emotional detachment in his final moments. However, it would have been more compelling if Quinn had uttered something significant after recalling Lt. Kohl, rather than accepting his fate with a swift shotgun blast to the face.

Quinn certainly stands out as a formidable villain, yet his erratic psychopathic behavior made him exceptionally despicable and chilling, almost reducing him to a caricature of a typical TV antagonist. One of the most compelling aspects of villainy lies in uncovering their motivations and their warped worldviews. Quinn, however, lacked any depth or emotional complexity—he was simply a deranged businessman and a merciless killer. Paulie, despite being somewhat one-dimensional himself, could have realized that Quinn wasn’t worth fighting for, but this moment of clarity never materialized.

In a season of Reacher that relied heavily on its villains to deliver a gripping finale, “Unfinished Business” manages to provide numerous thrilling moments, even if some plot points felt predictable and less satisfying. Reacher shares valuable advice with Richard before their parting, succinctly encapsulating their unique yet distant relationship. Duffy’s remarks on relationships seemed somewhat extraneous, but it was amusing to witness Reacher on the receiving end of a gentle letdown.

The picturesque scene of Reacher riding down the winding roads of coastal Maine on a Harley, accompanied by “Shine” by Mondo Cozmo, serves as a fitting conclusion to the season. In the end, the Reacher season 3 finale accomplished its goal, even if it did so with a hint of caution.