Ep 1. Wartime

In the first episode of Ozark season 3, titled "Wartime," the Byrde family is back and facing the consequences of their actions from the previous season. Marty (played by Jason Bateman) and Wendy (played by Laura Linney) are trying to keep their casino up and running as the Navarro cartel puts pressure on them to launder more money. However, troubles begin to arise when a new player enters the scene, and the Byrdes must figure out how to navigate this new situation without putting their family in even more danger.

The episode starts with a scene that lets the audience know that things are not going to be easy for the Byrdes this season. We see Wendy meeting with the FBI, and it becomes clear that the cartel is not their only problem. Marty, meanwhile, is dealing with the aftermath of his actions in the previous season. His relationship with his wife is strained, and his daughter Charlotte (Sofia Hublitz) is acting out.

As the episode moves forward, we see the Byrdes trying to come up with a plan to keep the casino open and maintain their relationship with the Navarro cartel. At the same time, they must figure out how to deal with a new player in town, who is also trying to launder money. This new player, who goes by the name of Frank Cosgrove Jr. (played by Joseph Sikora), is the son of a local mob boss who wants a piece of the action.

The tension between the Byrdes and the Cosgroves is palpable from the moment they meet. Frank Jr. is a loose cannon, and Marty and Wendy don't know what to make of him. They try to play nice, but it's clear that Frank Jr. has his own agenda.

Meanwhile, Ruth (played by Julia Garner) is dealing with her own problems. She is trying to move beyond her tumultuous relationship with her cousin Wyatt (Charlie Tahan) and prove her worth to the Byrdes. Her storyline takes a surprising turn as she becomes involved in a new business venture that could have serious consequences for her future.

Throughout the episode, there is a sense of unease and tension that permeates every scene. The Byrdes are constantly looking over their shoulder, wondering who they can trust. There are moments of levity, particularly in scenes with the always-excellent Janet McTeer, who plays Helen, the cartel's lawyer. But even these moments are tinged with a sense of dread.

As the episode ends, the Byrdes are left facing a new set of challenges. They have managed to come out on top so far, but they know that their luck can only last for so long. There are a lot of unanswered questions, and it's clear that the season is going to be full of twists and turns.

Overall, "Wartime" is a strong start to the third season of Ozark. The writing is sharp, the performances are excellent, and the tension is palpable. It's clear that the Byrde family is in for a rough ride, and viewers should prepare themselves for a season full of surprises.