Ep 3. The Big Never

In True Detective season 3 episode 3, titled "The Big Never," we see detectives Wayne Hays and Roland West continue their investigation into the disappearance of two children in the Ozarks in the 1980s. This episode takes us back to 1990, where Hays and West are being interviewed separately by an investigative journalist, Elisa Montgomery, who is interested in the case.

Throughout the episode, we learn more about the personal lives of Hays and West, including their attitudes toward race, sexuality, and family. We see Hays struggling with his marriage to Amelia, who is determined to write a book about the case. Meanwhile, West is dealing with the aftermath of a shootout that occurred years earlier.

As the investigative journalist continues to ask questions, Hays and West begin to realize that there may have been more to the case than they originally thought. They uncover new leads and evidence that could potentially point towards the killer's identity.

One of the key themes in this episode is memory. The detectives are interviewed in 1990, but they are also shown in different timelines throughout the episode. Hays is depicted as an old man, struggling with dementia, and we see his memories of the case becoming hazy and unreliable. The show explores the concept of memory as a form of storytelling, and how it can be both helpful and hindering in a criminal investigation.

The landscapes of the Ozarks also play a prominent role in this episode. The detectives drive through the rugged terrain, and the camera lingers on the natural beauty of the area. The vast, sprawling forests and waterways create a sense of isolation and unease that adds to the overall atmosphere of the show.

"The Big Never" is a slow-burning episode that relies heavily on character development and atmosphere. The pacing may be too slow for some viewers, but for those who enjoy a show that takes its time to build tension and intrigue, this episode does not disappoint. By the end of the episode, the detectives are left with more questions than answers, setting the stage for the rest of the season.