Ep 2. Night Finds You

Ray Velcoro, a corrupt police detective, receives a disturbing call from his ex-wife's rapist. The man claims to have information about Velcoro's son, who Velcoro believes to be his biological child, but has been unable to see due to his ex-wife's marriage to a wealthy city manager. Meanwhile, Ani Bezzerides, a tough and troubled detective, begins to connect the dots between her missing person case and a high-end prostitution ring. She enlists the help of her sister, who works as an escort, to gather information. Frank Semyon, a criminal turned businessman, struggles to keep his empire together after a deal with a powerful developer falls through. As the detectives' paths begin to converge, they discover a conspiracy that goes deeper than they ever could have imagined.

Throughout the episode, the characters navigate their personal and professional lives with a sense of unease and tension. Velcoro's desperation to see his son drives him to take drastic measures, while Bezzerides' mistrust of authority causes tension with her superiors. Semyon's past returns to haunt him as he struggles to maintain his image as a legitimate businessman. The episode's title, "Night Finds You," reflects the ominous tone of the show, as the characters are haunted by their past mistakes and the threats that loom on the horizon.

One of the standout elements of the episode is the cinematography and visual storytelling. Director Justin Lin (known for his work on the Fast and Furious franchise) creates a moody and atmospheric world, filled with shadows and neon lights. The scenes are often shot from unusual angles, adding to the sense of disorientation and unease. There are also several visually stunning sequences, including a tense car chase through the streets of Los Angeles and a surreal dream sequence that provides insight into Bezzerides' troubled psyche.

Another strength of the episode is the strong performances from the cast. Colin Farrell brings a nuanced complexity to Velcoro, portraying him as a flawed and troubled man struggling to do the right thing. Rachel McAdams also shines as Bezzerides, giving depth and complexity to a character who could easily come across as one-dimensional. Vince Vaughn is a somewhat surprising addition to the cast, but he holds his own as Semyon, bringing a sense of menace and vulnerability to the role.

Overall, "Night Finds You" is a strong episode that sets the stage for the rest of the season. It builds on the themes and characters established in the premiere, while also introducing new plotlines and mysteries. The tone is dark and brooding, with a sense of foreboding that keeps the viewer on edge. With its strong visuals, complex characters, and engaging plot, True Detective season 2 episode 2 is a must-see for fans of the show.