Twin Peaks – The Return: Bittersweet beginning and a tearful goodbye

Twin Peaks – Nadine – Courtesy of Showtime

Twin Peaks – The Return is the most anticipated television event of 2017. Of course, being a huge admirer of David Lynch’s work, I jumped at the chance to cover this series for 1428 Elm. So, meet me at the Double R every week for a slice of pie and a damn fine cup of coffee.

“Watch for that one. The one under the moon on Blue Pine Mountain.” Be warned, there are SPOILERS ahead!

Got Shovel

Nadine Hurley (Wendy Robie) is walking with a purpose down the main street of Twin Peaks carrying a gold shovel. She ends up at her husband Ed’s garage (Everett McGill). As part of her “shoveling out of the shit” she informs him that he is free to be with Norma.

For years, Nadine knew that he carried a torch for her. “True love is giving the other what makes them happy.” With that she leaves, giving Ed time to muster up the courage to go and see the love of his life.

Twin Peaks – Ed and Norma – Courtesy of Showtime

Declaration of Love

Ed enters the Double R. Filled with determination, he strides toward Norma (Peggy Lipton). He tells her he is a free to be with her. Unfortunately, at that moment, Walter (Grant Goodeve), Norma’s business partner enters the café. She excuses herself and goes to meet him.

Feeling crushed, Ed sits down at the counter and orders a cup of coffee from Shelly (Mädchen Amick). Crestfallen he mutters after Shelly leaves, “and a cyanide pill.”

Norma informs Walter that she wants him to buy her out. She wants to keep the flagship Double R and he can have the rest of the franchises. Walter is taken aback when he inquires as to why she is making this decision, Norma replies, “I want to spend more time at home.”

Angry, Walter tells her that she is making a mistake and exits the restaurant. Smiling, Norma walks over to Ed. They embrace one another and kiss. Ed asks her to marry him. I was so glad that this happened because I was upset that Norma would be so callous as to just walk away from his life changing declaration of love for her.

Although there is soaring music and a beautiful blue sky, the swirling clouds overhead tell us that something is brewing. Even though everything is bright and illuminated, Lynch still masterfully conveys the darkness beneath the otherwise brilliant landscape.