Gen V – Episodes 1-3 Review: Bloody Good (Spoiler Free)

Episodes 1-3 of Gen V have just released and we’re reviewing them all, dissecting everything in a spoiler-free manner. Set in the universe of The Boys, Gen V follows a cast of young adult supes attending Godolkin University School of Crimefighting. The Boys was known for its jaw-dropping violence and intense nature. Gen V follows suite in what appears to be a worthy successor to the Amazon Prime Video show. With an amazing array of characters, it is not wonder that this show is already showing great potential.

The cast includes Marie Moreau (Jaz Sinclair) a young supe who can control her blood and use it as a weapon. Emma Meye (Lizze Broadway) also known as ‘Little Cricket’ for her ability to shrink in size. Sam (Asa Germann) who possess superhuman strength. Andre Anderson (Chance Perdomo) who has interesting magnetic powers. Cate Dunlap (Maddie Phillips) who is able to compel people to carry out any command simply by just touching them. Luke Riordan (Patrick Schwarzenegger) known as ‘Golden Boy’ who can manipulate and control fire. Finally, Jordan Li (Derek Luh and London Thor) possessing the ability to change genders from male to female, each with their own respective powers.

Episodes 1-3 of Gen V released on Friday September 29, 2023 and can be streamed on Amazon Prime Video. That being said, this is our review of Gen V Episodes 1-3.

Story

Cast, Characters, and Plot

Gen V manages to perfectly capture the gritty nature present in The Boys. In fact, the gore-filled scenes in Gen V do not merely feel like they are for shock-value. Instead, the creators of the show made it so that these violent scenes have a deeper underlying meaning. Similarly to The Boys, the cast is likeable and full of diverse stories being told. Although beloved characters such as Homelander, Billy Butcher, and Starlight aren’t present, the characters introduced are all intriguing, making us want to know more about their stories.

Best of all, the series doesn’t rely on cameos from The Boys characters in order to stay relevant. They’re great to have every now and then, but aren’t essential to the story at all. Each character, storyline, and setting can hold its own and prove to be an exhilarating tale to be told. There’s not much more to be said about the overall plot as everything fits together nicely. Hopefully, they can continue harnessing this momentum and deliver more great episodes in the future.

Compound V and Vought

In this spin-off, we’re presented with more information regarding Compound V. The audience is met with scenes of Marie and her classmates attending sessions that aim to help them express how they feel about their traumas. Of course, being injected with Compound V as a child without being able to consent is extremely concerning and was presented as a major issue in the original show. However now, we are able to dig deeper into the psychological aspect of things, further explaining details regarding the super’s psyche.

Marie Moreau in Gen V. (Source: Amazon Prime)

The inappropriate nature of these diabolical scenes are extremely fitting and never feel forced or unnecessary. Every scene exists to fulfil a purpose even if that purpose is simply to make the audience feel uncomfortable. Furthermore, the ‘diabolical’ and twisted nature of Vought International. is explored immensely in this show. We’re yet again thrown into the mix of a pool of Vought corruption, always on the brink of chaos. The show’s written in a way that will leave you shocked, emotionally-scarred, happy, and excited all during the same episode!

Pacing

Despite all the violence seamlessly fitting into the universe, sometimes things feel like they’re a bit too fast-paced. Without much need to ease us into things, the show immediately takes risks in storytelling, showcasing frequent deaths and messed up scenes. Of course, this hits the nail on the head for fans of The Boys as this is exactly the same formula used in said show. That being said, the overwhelming nature of how quick and action-packed Gen V is sometimes feels a bit much.

Cinematography

The cinematography was decent, none of the shots were especially exceptional. However, we must give credit where credit is due. Despite there not being outstanding camera angles and insane visuals, the choice of shots and angles were extremely efficient. Each shot had its purpose, delivering the intended emotion portrayed through the lens. Furthermore, the special effects were consistent, none of them feeling cheap or rushed. The VFX team did a solid job and so did the camera team.

‘Murderer’ message painted in blood. (Source: Amazon Prime)

Music and Ambience

The campus truly feels alive, with many different students all with their own unique abilities and personalities. Each student whether bursting with popularity or keeping to themselves always feel fleshed-out and full of depth. This is further elevated by the great choice of music and sound design.

Everything blends in well perfectly to make you truly feel immersed in this bittersweet world. Additionally, there is something oddly charming about there being some relatively old tracks in a show about Gen V. Although the soundtrack from The Boys is more memorable, we’re willing to give Gen V a few more episodes to impress us with some excellently composed pieces.

Below you can listen to the Gen V official trailer song I’m Gonna Do My Thing, brough to you by Position Music.

Final Verdict – The Boys Are Back!

We’re excited to follow the next generation of heroes set in the same universe as The Boys. Despite their connections, Gen V holds its own as more than just another Marvel or DC superheroes parody. Instead, it’s a satirical journey full of violence and despair, trying to push the audience to their limits, exploring psychological aspects of concepts we previously hadn’t considered deep. If you possess a strong heart and are able to tolerate the gore, you’ll quickly find that the showrunners have produced something truly special here.

This was our review of Gen V episodes 1-3, for more reviews make sure to check out our articles on KeenGamer.