Yellowjackets Season 3 Episode 3 Delves into Dark Dreams

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 21, 2025 — The gripping third episode of Showtime‘s acclaimed series *Yellowjackets*, titled “Them’s the Brakes,” concludes with an intense hallucination sequence that intertwines the nightmarish visions of three central characters from the drama’s 1996 wilderness timeline: Shauna, Van, and Akilah. As the episode unfolds, audiences witness Shauna grappling with the loss of her child, Van confronting a perilous situation within a cabin, and Akilah having a whimsical, yet profound encounter with a talking llama, all while haunted by the specter of their deceased teammate Jackie.

Co-showrunner Craig Lisco, who both directed and co-wrote the episode, shared insights with *The Hollywood Reporter* about the thematic depth of the hallucinations, their cultural significance, and the neuroscience behind collective dreaming. He emphasized that the nightmarish elements serve a deeper narrative purpose, stating, “If it doesn’t feel embedded and coming out of character, then we’re not doing it.” This approach illustrates the show’s intricate weaving of psychological and emotional threads, vital for its storytelling.

Reflecting on the dark tone of the current season, Lisco explained how the writers’ room capitalized on the creative freedom afforded by the show’s success. The team aimed to take risks while remaining true to their artistic vision, ensuring that the show is not merely a collection of shocking moments. “We have to trust our instincts,” Lisco said. “We cannot make a show for everyone. We have to make a show for ourselves.”

The writers possess a nuanced understanding of the plot’s direction, even as they adapt to the evolving narratives. Lisco revealed, “While we have architectural tentpoles for the seasons to come, a lot falls away during the creative process. Our goal is to create an emotional resonance that stays with viewers long after the episode ends.”

In this particular episode, the exploration of cannibalism—once a focal point of the series—takes on new meaning. The backstory involving Shauna’s pivotal decision intertwines themes of dominance, survival, and valorizing friendship. Lisco asserted that story arcs surrounding cannibalism will remain character-driven, contributing to a richer narrative experience.

Addressing the intertwining characters of Tai, Van, and Akilah, Lisco explained the significance behind their shared psychosis. The notion of collective dreaming, accentuated by cultural references to Indigenous practices, serves to enhance the narrative’s depth. “The syncing of dreams is something rooted in Shamanistic cultures, where it acted as a means for societies to determine future conventions,” Lisco elucidated.

As the series progresses, viewers will encounter revelations about the adult characters’ past traumas and the alliances formed during their harrowing wilderness experiences. Coach Ben’s character serves as an ethical compass among the group, providing poignant reflections on survival and morality.

*Yellowjackets* continues to challenge perceptions of memory, subjective experience, and the psychological implications of shared trauma. Lisco’s insights, combined with the show’s complex narrative mechanisms, promise that audiences will be treated to a profound experience as the season unfolds.

New episodes of *Yellowjackets* are released on Fridays via Paramount+, followed by airings on Showtime each Sunday at 9 p.m.