Season 3 was something of a slow starter, which disappointed somewhat after being so impressed by the previous two seasons, and the new casting took a lot of getting used to. The quality of the season does get much better, and "Aberfan" for example was one of the best episodes of 'The Crown' and some of the best and moving pieces of television seen in a while. Was also immediately intrigued in seeing the always reliable Charles Dance as Lord Mountbatten.
"Coup" is an exceptional episode and a fine example of how well and quickly Season 3 picked up. It is almost on the same level of "Aberfan", though not quite as emotionally powerful, and is one of the best episodes of Season 3 in my view. "Coup" is especially notable for one particularly well done scene and a truly inspired casting choice that was pulled off brilliantly. Have seen plenty saying that 'The Crown' declined from Season 3 onwards, despite finding the previous two seasons better and more consistent episodes like "Aberfan" and this are indicative to me of that not being true.
Pretty much everything is fantastic here. The expense really does show in the classy, sumptuous period detail and the atmospheric and elegant way it's shot. The music for me wasn't too intrusive or low-key and was beautiful scoring on its own. The main theme is not easy to forget.
Writing probes a lot of thought and is never less than intriguing and emotionally investable, it never veers into soap-opera land and doesn't sound too modern. The story is not over deliberate and is extremely absorbing, the major standout scene being the final one. One of the season's best and most moving in an episode that is one of the season's most intelligent and poignant, the need of tissues is pretty much guaranteed.
The character development is illuminating and insightful, with Lord Mountbatten already being an interesting character. The acting is nothing short of spot on, Olivia Colman's casting has really grown on me and she is a lot more relaxed and expressive compared to her first episode "Olding". Jane Lapotaire has lost none of her poignant dignity, but best of all is Dance in a pitch perfect performance brimming with authority. Best supporting actor casting choice since John Lithgow's Churchill.
Overall, brilliant. 10/10.