DVD Corner

Abbott Elementary Season 3 DVD Review

Season 3 of “Abbott Elementary” is solid, but easily the weakest to date.  

Instead of a full season, the third season of the ABC sitcom “Abbott Elementary” runs 14 episodes due to the industry strikes that took place. For those that may not be familiar with this TV comedy, the series is set at Willard R. Abbott Public School in Philadelphia and revolves around the school’s teachers (Janine, Gregory, Melissa, Jacob and Barbara), the Principal (Ava) and the Janitor (Mr. Johnson). Storylines this season include: Career day, Gary and Melissa’s relationship, students, an ASL interpreter, cigarettes, substitutes, Jacob and Zach’s relationship, controversy over the school’s namesake, the school library, a speaking panel, AI, Ava Fest, Janine’s career, dates, a book club, a Mother’s Day brunch, a field trip, funding issues, a teacher party and Janine and Gregory’s relationship.

Ever since the show’s debut in 2021, the Quinta Brunson created sitcom has become a breakout hit that has grown more and more popular. Despite the overdone “The Office” style mockumentary approach, the award-winning comedy was notable for its smart writing and exploration of the deeply flawed American education system and public schools in general. The shortened third season may not be on the level of the acclaimed first two seasons, but there’s still much to admire here. There’s an abundance of characterization (particularly with Barbara and Janine working with the school district), relationship storylines, and general changes in the everyday lives of the characters. 

On the downside, the sitcom does fall victim to the standard sitcom trappings (such as Janine and Gregory’s will they or won’t they be a couple plotline) and the condensed season does feel rather clunky overall. The newness has also worn off and some elements have become rather tiresome (how many times can the characters glance at the camera?). Still, in an era where a majority of network TV is disposable junk, “Abbott Elementary” shines bright with its timely story and winning performances by the likes of Tyler James Williams, Lisa Ann Walter, Janelle James, Sheryl Lee Ralph and Quinta Brunson.

Presentation: 1.78:1. Grade: B+

Audio Track: Dolby Digital 5.1. Grade: B+

No extras.

April 3, 2025 - Posted by nicklyons1 | DVD review | Abbott Elementary, Abbott Elementary Season 3 DVD Review, Quinta Brunson, Sitcom