My comments might be premature given that it has not been more than a few hours before I finished the season, but I it is so on my mind. So much so that I have even taken to "Mad Men Yourself" as seen in the scene below (I can't help but think of how mannish I look).
Be forewarned, generally my critique does not give away details of the season, however, there are few moments by which I was surprised and have decided to include them as a basis for argument. It may be difficult to understand the references out of context.
The season as a whole took me by surprise. Generally subdued characters acting out seemingly mundane experiences. The drama generally at an all time low, and growing gradually as the season finale approached. However it was far from boring. The relationships established in "slower" moments of the season provided depth for the following episodes.
Don Draper's character has finally come full circle, appropriately enough with a new venture on the horizon for Season 4. I feel as though his actions have become slightly predictable, and just when we have come to understand who Don Draper is, identity crisis and all, everything changes. I look forward to the fine acting of Jon Hamm in the coming season.
Betty Draper's character was really given a chance to develop in this season. And while I haven't fully developed an opinion on January Jones' acting (sometimes I think she is great, and others I am dissatisfied), I have to admit that she is gorgeous. This season she really handled the plight of the domesticated woman in the 60's with poise. In the beginning of the season, it was refreshing to see a new take on the Draper family. But we all knew their eventual fate, because somethings just never change. Despite a trip to Rome. It will be interesting to see where Betty's character goes as a new, independent woman.
As for the staff of Sterling Cooper. I am thrilled at the final line up of characters, Joan, Peggy, and Pete have the potential to be come/are really fantastic characters (I mean Pete and the au pair, whew!) Joan is clearly beautiful, intelligent and invaluable, and it will be nice to see her appreciated (I am, as I am sure all women who watch this show are, cheering for her). John Slattery provides all the comic relief the show needs and will be a great anchor (and mentor) for Don as he comes into his own. There are characters I will miss (and maybe only because they were cute/funny: Paul Kinsey).
And while I was completely satisfied with this season, it did not come without flaws. At times the writing was stiff and predictable or unnecessarily unpredictable (the whole plot of new management only to be sold again, which I suppose enforces the unstable working environment but was completely unnecessary) or awkward. I did not really care for any seen of Don's past. Rarely did it lend itself to insight, save in the last episode. Not to mention other small scenes not worth in-depth criticizing.
Needlesstosay, the ending was definitely the highlight of the season. Preempted by an astoundingly catalytic episode in which the death of JFK sends the characters into a frenzy. The final episode really shatters everything we know about the firm and leaves us with many expectations and as equally as unsure about the future.
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