In this week’s episode of Twin Peaks, we see a shift from the pilot. A lighter tone has begun to seep into the show with “Traces to Nowhere,” with obvious moments of levity, a bouncier soundtrack and a brighter, more colorful visual palette. For my part, I welcomed the change from the dour season opener and found this version of Twin Peaks to be much more inviting.
One easy example of this shift comes from Dale Cooper (Kyle MacLachlan), who is far less sinister than his original incarnation. We’re introduced to his story line this week with upside-down note taking and a cup of coffee. J indicates this is the Cooper people know, a kind-hearted and affectionate figure.
The darker side of the townspeople also continue to crystallize this episode. As promised last episode with foreboding dialogue, we’re finally made privy to Leo’s (Eric DaRe) incredibly dangerous anger. We also learn that there are citizens of Twin Peaks who benefit from tragedy and who may have more to gain from murder and strife than people realize.
“Traces to Nowhere” also sees moments of experimental filmmaking from David Lynch and his crew. With superimposed imagery, quick cuts to disconnected locations and misaligned audio, little moments like these add to the unnerving character of Twin Peaks. I look forward to next week where J promises a further dive into the supernatural.
~ Søren
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Tune in next week where we’ll discuss the third episode of Season 1, “Zen, or the Skill to Catch a Killer.”
This podcast uses a clip from the song “nightRain” by airtone / CC BY 3.0.
