Lucifer Season 3 Episode 26, often referred to as the “bonus” episode “Once Upon a Time,” presents an alternate universe scenario narrated by God himself, drastically altering the dynamics and relationships of our beloved characters. This episode ultimately serves as a poignant “what if” scenario, highlighting the importance of free will and the choices that define us.
A Divine Narrative: God Takes the Stage
In “Once Upon a Time,” the episode’s core conceit is that God, weary of the same old celestial drama, decides to spice things up by narrating an alternate reality. This reality throws our characters into different, often unsettling, versions of themselves. We see Lucifer Morningstar as a detective partnered with Ella Lopez, Chloe Decker married to Dan Espinoza, and Amenadiel struggling with his purpose in a completely new light. The episode’s genius lies in its ability to explore the characters’ core traits even within these shifted circumstances.
The overarching theme becomes clear: regardless of external influence, choice remains paramount. Even with God orchestrating events, the characters’ inherent nature, their strengths and weaknesses, still manifest. Lucifer’s rebellion, Chloe’s dedication to justice, and Amenadiel’s search for meaning all persist, though expressed in drastically different ways.
This narrative device allows for a meta-commentary on the show itself, as God directly addresses the audience, making light of fan theories and the perceived shortcomings of his own writing. It’s a self-aware and humorous exploration of the series’ foundations.
The Fractured Relationships: A World Upside Down
The most jarring aspect of this alternate reality is the distortion of the central relationships. The dynamic between Lucifer and Chloe, the core of the show, is completely different. While they are partners, the spark of romance is absent. Chloe, as Dan’s wife, is grounded and, arguably, less receptive to Lucifer’s unique brand of charm.
Amenadiel, freed from the constraints of his angelic duties, finds himself struggling with identity and purpose. His relationship with Maze, now a therapist specializing in demon issues, is also significantly altered. This showcases the interdependence of these characters and how even small changes can have ripple effects across their lives.
Dan and Ella, usually sources of comic relief, are also presented in new, thought-provoking lights. Dan’s domestic life and Ella’s partnership with Lucifer offer a glimpse into unexplored avenues for their characters. It emphasizes the multifaceted nature of their personalities and their capacity for growth beyond the familiar confines of the main storyline.
God’s Experiment: The Point of It All
God’s interference, while seemingly random, serves a specific purpose. He wants to explore the consequences of different choices. He is, in essence, playing with the characters to understand them better, perhaps even to nudge them towards a predetermined path. However, the episode ultimately underscores the importance of free will.
Despite God’s manipulation, the characters retain their essential nature. Lucifer remains rebellious and self-destructive, Chloe remains driven by justice and compassion, and Amenadiel continues his search for meaning. This reinforces the idea that the choices they make are not entirely predetermined, but rather shaped by their own inherent characteristics.
The episode’s conclusion brings everything back to normal, leaving the audience with a lingering question: What was the point of all this? The answer lies in the exploration of potentiality. “Once Upon a Time” reminds us that the characters’ journey is defined by their choices, not by any predetermined fate. It’s a powerful statement about the agency of the individual and the importance of embracing the unknown.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is “Once Upon a Time” considered canon?
No, “Once Upon a Time” is generally considered a non-canon episode. It presents an alternate reality that doesn’t directly impact the main storyline of Lucifer. Think of it as a “what if” scenario rather than a continuation of the primary narrative.
2. Why was this episode aired after the season finale?
The episode was initially intended to be part of Season 3 but was delayed due to production schedules. It was eventually aired as a bonus episode after the official season finale, “A Devil of My Word.”
3. Who narrates the episode?
The episode is narrated by God, voiced by Neil Gaiman, the writer of the Sandman comics from which Lucifer originated. This adds a layer of meta-commentary and gives the episode a unique perspective.
4. How does this episode affect Lucifer and Chloe’s relationship in the main storyline?
It doesn’t directly affect their relationship. However, it offers a different perspective on their dynamic and highlights the importance of their free will and choices in shaping their connection.
5. What is the significance of Ella being Lucifer’s partner in the alternate reality?
It showcases Ella’s skills as an investigator and her ability to connect with Lucifer on a different level. It also underscores the possibility of alternative partnerships within the ensemble cast.
6. Why is Chloe married to Dan in the alternate reality?
This serves to disrupt the established romantic tension between Lucifer and Chloe and to explore Chloe’s potential for a different kind of happiness. It highlights her ability to find love and stability even in the absence of Lucifer’s influence.
7. What does Amenadiel do in the alternate reality?
Amenadiel struggles to find purpose and meaning outside of his angelic duties. This highlights his reliance on divine intervention and his internal conflict between destiny and free will.
8. Does Maze appear in this episode?
Yes, Maze appears as a therapist specializing in demon issues. This offers a humorous twist on her character and explores her potential for a more professional, yet still unconventional, career path.
9. What is God’s motivation for creating this alternate reality?
He claims he’s bored and wants to spice things up. However, his actions suggest a deeper motivation, potentially to understand his creations better and perhaps even to manipulate them towards a desired outcome.
10. Is there a particular message or theme that the episode emphasizes?
The episode emphasizes the importance of free will and the consequences of choices. It suggests that even with external influences and manipulations, individuals ultimately shape their own destinies.
11. How was this episode received by fans?
The episode received mixed reviews. Some fans appreciated its meta-commentary, humor, and exploration of alternate possibilities. Others found it disruptive and unnecessary, as it didn’t contribute to the main storyline.
12. Where can I watch “Once Upon a Time”?
The episode is available on streaming platforms that host Lucifer, such as Netflix, depending on your region. It’s listed as Season 3 Episode 26.