Ranking the 3 Seasons of Twin Peaks: From Worst to Best

Article Overview

Twin Peaks Season 2, while not as strong as the first season, still has highlights, including the resolution of Laura Palmer's murder and the fantastic finale.

Twin Peaks' first season is a visually stunning display, featuring a charming and hospitable town, endearing characters, and a gripping homicide investigation.

Twin Peaks: The Return is a remarkable triumph that demands viewers to let go of preconceived notions, presenting an original perspective that delves into nostalgia and the evolving nature of time.

Twin Peaks, considered one of the greatest TV series ever created, is made up of three seasons varying in quality. Originally airing from 1990-1991, the show was co-written by David Lynch and Mark Frost before being cancelled by ABC. Following its cancellation, two prequel films, Twin Peaks: Fire Walk with Me (1992) and The Missing Pieces (2014), were released. In 2017, Showtime released a third season titled Twin Peaks: The Return, which featured the return of the original creators and most of the main cast.

Set in the small town of Twin Peaks, located in the Pacific Northwest, the series delves into the disruption caused by the murder of high school student Laura Palmer. This mysterious murder, intertwined with an ongoing case, grabs the attention of the FBI and their Special Agent Dale Cooper. Cooper teams up with local Sheriff Harry Truman, the police department, and various members of the town community to unravel the perplexing murder, leading them into a world of supernatural and otherworldly phenomena. Widely regarded as one of the best TV shows of all time, Twin Peaks has also had a significant influence on the television landscape.

3. Twin Peaks Season 2

Released on ABC and famously saw Laura Palmer's murder solved.

Season 2 of Twin Peaks is often regarded as the weakest season, mainly because David Lynch left the show due to network interference. Lynch's departure resulted in the explanation of Laura Palmer's death against his original intention, forcing a resolution to a mystery he wanted to remain ambiguous. However, while the resolution of Laura Palmer's murder is not the worst part of Season 2, it, along with the exceptional finale "Beyond Life and Death," are actually the highlights. It is what follows after that does not work as effectively.

After Lynch's departure, Season 2 is filled with peculiar subplots and character arcs that attempt to mimic the director's style. James' romantic plotline with Evelyn, Nadine's return to high school with super strength, and the Little Nicky story involving Andy and Dick Tremayne occupy a significant amount of time after Leland Palmer's death, making it challenging to endure until the finale. These storylines may have their occasional moments of endearment, but they ultimately fall short of the warmth and charm of Season 1. However, in terms of the show's supernatural and otherworldly elements, Season 2 showcases Twin Peaks at its finest moments.

2. Twin Peaks Season 1

Released originally on ABC.

The first season of Twin Peaks is an exquisite display of television. Twin Peaks, the town itself, exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere, making viewers feel instantly at ease in a place seemingly untainted by the outside world. The ethereal beauty of misty mountains and majestic Douglas fir trees perfectly complements the comforting indulgences of coffee, donuts, and cherry pie, creating a soothing aesthetic that serves as a stark contrast to the shock and horror surrounding Laura Palmer's brutal murder. It is a town where love and romance still burn passionately, where dreams and gut instincts hold significance in an ongoing detective investigation, and where a single girl's life carries an enduring impact for decades.

Twin Peaks is renowned for its endearing and captivating characters. The dynamic between FBI Special Agent Dale Cooper and local Sheriff Harry Truman is built on a strong partnership, mutual respect, and a display of positive masculinity. Bobby and Shelly's scandalous romance, masked by their immaturity, is a source of hope and support from all corners. Big Ed Hurley and Norma Jennings demonstrate that love knows no age limits. The distinctive personalities of Lucy, Andy, the Log Lady, Pete Martell, and many others contribute to the town's uniqueness and make it unlike any other. Season 1 showcases the ensemble's strengths and brilliance.

The shocking death of Laura Palmer rocks the community of Twin Peaks, and the ensuing mystery of her murder captivates from the start. Season 1 establishes a riveting whodunit scenario with its vast array of potential suspects, seamlessly blending elements of soap opera drama, crime investigation, and groundbreaking filmmaking. Through its stunning cinematography, intricate storylines, and exploration of profound philosophical themes, Twin Peaks season 1 revolutionizes television, presenting it as a genuine art form that rivals even the finest films.

1. Twin Peaks Season 3 - The Return

Released 25 years after the last installment on Showtime.

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Twin Peaks: The Return is a groundbreaking achievement in television. With David Lynch and Mark Frost at the helm, this 18-episode season dares viewers to leave behind their expectations and embrace a unique and unconventional vision. While the narrative may appear ambiguous, it is indeed coherent and unlike anything seen on TV before or since. It serves as a fitting conclusion to the original ABC series.

In addition to its narrative complexity, Twin Peaks: The Return offers a poignant commentary on nostalgia. The town of Twin Peaks, once a symbol of traditional Americana, has evolved. The Double R Diner is now franchised, and the Roadhouse is a trendy bar attracting young people and out-of-town bands. The familiar music cues are sparingly used, and viewers must patiently await the reappearance of beloved characters. Furthermore, the show expands its setting beyond the town itself, acknowledging Twin Peaks' connection to the outside world.

In an industry saturated with reboots, sequels, and spin-offs, the resurgence of Twin Peaks delves into the irreversible passage of time. This striking divergence from its earlier seasons compels the audience to embrace novelty, all while revisiting the core essence of the original series: the refusal to unveil the answers to its central enigmas. Consequently, the third season of Twin Peaks offers endless interpretations, as no solution holds absolute truth. The intricate eighteen-hour tapestry can be rearranged in accordance with the viewer's perception, ultimately delivering a gratifying and personalized journey.

Editor's P/S

In my opinion, Twin Peaks is a remarkable television series that captivates audiences with its intriguing blend of mystery, supernatural elements, and quirky characters. David Lynch and Mark Frost have crafted a world that is both familiar and unsettling, drawing viewers into the dark secrets that lie beneath the surface of the seemingly peaceful town of Twin Peaks.

The first season of Twin Peaks stands out as a masterpiece of television. The murder of Laura Palmer sets the stage for a complex and gripping investigation that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The characters are complex and well-developed, and the town of Twin Peaks itself is a fascinating microcosm of small-town America. The show's visuals are stunning, and the music is haunting and atmospheric. Overall, the first season of Twin Peaks is a must-watch for any fan of television.