‘Murderbot’ Episode 3 Review

Murderbot Episode 3 Review: Slow-Paced Filler Episode

The third episode of Apple TV+’s Murderbot feels more like an extended piece of filler than a standalone installment. With a runtime of just twenty-two minutes, it offers little in the way of answers or meaningful character development.

Plot Summary

After receiving no reply from the other research team on the planet, the main group decides to investigate their base. Upon arrival, Murderbot discovers that everyone there is dead—and the scene suggests that their own SecUnits were responsible. We also learn that one SecUnit had its safety protocols overridden, forcing it to harm the very people it was meant to protect. However, the culprit behind this override remains a mystery, ending the episode on yet another cliffhanger.

Pacing and Structure

• Short Runtime: At twenty-two minutes, this episode feels too brief to stand on its own.
• Filler Content: The first half consists mainly of dialogue about minor details, while the second half contains brief action sequences.
• Unresolved Cliffhanger: Despite the previous episode ending on a major cliffhanger, Episode 3 provides no real answers or new layers to the mystery.

Given these factors, it would have made more sense to combine this material with the next episode. As it stands, there is no clear justification for its standalone release—other than to stretch the season by another week.

Character Development

• Stagnant Arcs: None of the characters experience significant growth.
• Missed Opportunities: With the research base destroyed, we might have expected emotional beats or revelations about Murderbot’s inner conflict. Instead, viewers are left with the same unanswered questions.

Humor and Tone

• Cringe-Inducing Jokes: The show’s humor often feels forced. It seems designed to create an awkward atmosphere, but it does not flow naturally.
• Unlikable Characters: Several supporting characters lack redeeming qualities, making it hard to invest in their fate or reactions.

Analysis

1. Lack of Narrative Momentum:
The previous episode ended with a suspenseful cliffhanger (Murderbot Episode 1 & 2 review). Yet, Episode 3 offers minimal advancement—neither in plot nor in character arcs.

2. Inefficient Storytelling:
Key revelations (e.g., the rogue SecUnit) are introduced but never explored. Essential questions—such as who overrode the protocol—remain unanswered, creating frustration rather than anticipation.

3. Unnecessary Extension:
Combining this material with Episode 4 would have maintained better pacing and given viewers more substance per week.

Conclusion

Episode 3 of Murderbot serves primarily as filler. With no significant plot progression, no character growth, and minimal screen time, it fails to justify its place as an independent episode. Unless the next installment provides substantial revelations, this season risks losing viewer engagement due to its slow pace and unresolved mysteries.