Ep 1. Reflections

The Killing season 2 episode 1, titled "Reflections," sets the stage for the aftermath of the Rosie Larsen murder case. Detectives Sarah Linden and Stephen Holder return to their roles as the investigative duo, but their partnership is almost immediately put to the test when Linden reveals that she's leaving Seattle to start a new life.

As Linden makes preparations to leave, Holder takes on a new case involving the apparent murder of another teenage girl. But the case quickly becomes more complicated than he initially thought, and he turns to Linden for help. The two detectives team up once again to uncover the truth behind the girl's death, while grappling with the unresolved emotions and loose ends from the previous season.

Meanwhile, the Larsen family is still reeling from the loss of their daughter. Mitch and Stan have pursued different paths of grief, with Mitch leaving town and Stan descending into a spiral of violence and heavy drinking. But their paths cross again when Mitch returns unexpectedly, and the family must confront the difficult reality of moving forward without Rosie.

"Reflections" is an emotionally charged episode that sets the tone for the remainder of the season. The show's signature moody atmosphere is still present, but with a renewed focus on the characters and their personal struggles. The opening scene, in particular, is a poignant reflection on the aftermath of tragedy, as the Larsen family visits Rosie's grave and struggles to find meaning in their lives without her.

As the episode progresses, the tension builds as Holder's investigation uncovers more and more unsettling details, and Linden's impending departure looms over everything. The return of old characters, such as Linden's ex-fiancé and Holder's former partner, adds depth to the story and highlights the complicated web of relationships that exist between the show's central players.

The performances by the show's ensemble cast are as strong as ever, with Mireille Enos as Linden and Joel Kinnaman as Holder delivering standout performances in their reunion scenes. Michelle Forbes as Mitch Larsen is also a highlight, infusing her character with a raw vulnerability and anger that is palpable in every scene.

Overall, "Reflections" is a strong start to The Killing's second season. It sets up a complex mystery that promises to be just as engaging as the Rosie Larsen case, while also diving deeper into the personal lives of its characters. Fans of the show will undoubtedly be eager to see how the rest of the season unfolds.