7 Reasons to watch 'Twin Peaks' | Film Probe Blog

Created by David Lynch and Mark Frost, Twin Peaks is a surreal crime drama that follows Agent Dale Cooper as he visits the quaint little town of Twin Peaks to investigate the murder of Laura Palmer, a 17-year-old school girl.

As 7 was the late David Lynch's favourite number, I thought it could be fun to share 7 reasons why you should watch Twin Peaks!

1 . Crafted by David Lynch

David Lynch co-created Twin Peaks with Mark Frost. The show premiered in 1990, it blends elements of mystery, drama, surrealism and supernatural horror to create a truly unique television experience.

Lynch's distinctive directorial style is characterised by unsettling visuals, dreamlike sequences and quirky humour. His creative force was crucial in shaping Twin Peaks into the groundbreaking and influential television series it became. His surreal vision and artistic fearlessness challenged conventions and redefined the possibilities of storytelling in the medium of television.

2 . The Mystery of Laura Palmer

What happened to her?

In the seemingly idyllic small town of Twin Peaks, Washington, the discovery of homecoming queen Laura Palmer's body sends shockwaves through the community. 

FBI Special Agent Dale Cooper is called in to investigate, his unconventional methods of analysing dreams and supernatural occurrences soon reveal that Laura led a troubled life filled with secrets and dark encounters. 

3 . Iconic Characters & Performances

Dale Cooper, played by Kyle MacLachlan

Dale Cooper is one of the best and most iconic characters in television history.

His unique blend of intelligence, charm and quirky habits, combined with his unwavering optimism and dedication to justice, make him a truly captivating figure.

Laura Palmer, played by Sheryl Lee

The character of Laura Palmer is Twin Peaks, the show wouldn’t exist without her. She is a controversial, divisive character, ahead of her time in many ways.

She is a catalyst for every event within the show, she haunts every corner of the series and as a character she is one of the most fascinating.

4 . Genre-Bending Storytelling

Twin Peaks masterfully combines elements from multiple genres and styles to create a unique and unpredictable narrative. It's not just a murder mystery, it delves into the lives of the townspeople, exploring their relationships, secrets and the unsettling forces at play.

5 . Themes & Symbols

The beauty of Twin Peaks lies in its individual interpretation. The complex layers of themes and symbols allows viewers to engage with the narrative on multiple levels, over the years creating deep discussion and diverse perspectives on the show's meaning.

Lynch and Frost's masterpiece continues to captivate and inspire, inviting audiences to explore the strange, the beautiful and the terrifying events that transpire in the world of Twin Peaks.

6 . Unique Atmosphere

Twin Peaks defies categorisation, blending elements which add to the show's unique and unpredictable atmosphere.

The haunting score by Angelo Badalamenti is crucial to the show's cozy yet unsettling mood. The location along with the genre and score contribute to the atmosphere. Enclosed by dense forests, foggy landscapes gives an isolated feel.

7 . Influence on Television

Twin Peaks significantly influenced television by introducing elements like non-linear storytelling, atmospheric tension and a blend of genres. Twin Peaks was able to bring cinematic storytelling to television.

Twin Peaks blurred the lines between film and television. It’s surreal, dreamlike atmosphere, complex characters and cinematic style elevated television storytelling to a new level, impacting subsequent shows and feature films.