Ep 17. The Return, Part 17

Co-created by David Lynch and Mark Frost, the series "Twin Peaks: The Return" has been a surreal and enigmatic journey full of twisted narratives, uncanny characters, and disturbing sequences that didn't always make sense. The show follows the story of FBI agent Dale Cooper (Kyle MacLachlan) as he investigates the murder of high school student Laura Palmer (Sheryl Lee) in the small, fictional town of Twin Peaks, Washington. But as the investigation unfolds, Cooper gets dragged into a bizarre and supernatural web of events that defy explanation and rationality.

In the 17th episode of the show, aptly named "The Return, Part 17," the series reaches its climax and starts tying up some of its loose ends. Without giving away any spoilers, the episode picks up from where the previous one left off, with Cooper's plan to rescue the trapped Laura Palmer from the otherworldly dimension known as the Black Lodge. As he puts his plan into action, he confronts his doppelganger, the evil version of himself that has been wreaking havoc on the town and its inhabitants.

Meanwhile, other characters are also taking center stage in the unfolding drama. Shelly Johnson (Madchen Amick) goes on a dangerous mission to rescue her daughter from a drug lord, while Richard Horne (Eamon Farren) faces the consequences of his violent actions. The eccentric Log Lady (Catherine E. Coulson) delivers a cryptic message to Deputy Chief Hawk (Michael Horse), while Sarah Palmer (Grace Zabriskie) exhibits disturbing behavior in her home.

As the episode progresses, several mysteries that have been perplexing fans for weeks begin to unravel. We get some answers about the identity of the mysterious "Judy," the origin of the Black Lodge, and the fate of some of the missing characters. But the show doesn't spoon-feed its viewers, and there are still plenty of questions left unanswered, leaving the door open for further speculation and analysis.

Visually stunning, emotionally charged, and full of unexpected twists, "The Return, Part 17" is a satisfying and thrilling episode that showcases the creativity and craftsmanship of Lynch and Frost. The performances of the cast, especially Kyle MacLachlan, are outstanding, conveying a wide range of emotions and personalities in a single scene. The cinematography by Peter Deming, the music by Angelo Badalamenti, and the sound design by Dean Hurley contribute to the eerie and immersive atmosphere of the show.

In conclusion, for fans of the original "Twin Peaks" series, "The Return, Part 17" delivers a satisfying payoff that rewards their patience and loyalty. For newcomers to the show, it might be overwhelming or confusing, but it's a testament to the unique and daring vision of Lynch and Frost, who dared to push the boundaries of what television can achieve. As the show approaches its finale, it leaves a deep impact on its viewers, haunting them with its strange and beautiful world.