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Dale Cooper: From Twin Peaks to The Hidden

FBI Special Agent Dale Cooper, portrayed by Kyle MacLachlan in Twin Peaks, stands as a quintessential television character known for his unique charisma and investigative style. His efforts to unravel the mystery surrounding Laura Palmer’s murder in the small town of Twin Peaks contributed significantly to his status as one of TV’s most memorable protagonists. Interestingly, traces of Cooper’s character can be seen in MacLachlan’s earlier film roles, predating the show’s debut on ABC in 1990. Both MacLachlan and Twin Peaks‘ co-creator David Lynch have noted that Cooper is akin to an older version of Jeffrey Beaumont, the character MacLachlan played in Lynch’s 1986 film Blue Velvet.

In a fascinating turn, just a year after Blue Velvet, MacLachlan appeared as a character resembling Cooper even more closely — Lloyd Gallagher from the cult classic sci-fi action film The Hidden (1987). Gallagher, also an FBI agent, plunges into an investigation filled with the strange and fantastical, embodying many characteristics that later defined Cooper: a blend of quirkiness, intelligence, and profound compassion. Notably, The Hidden features another familiar face from Twin Peaks, Chris Mulkey, who played Hank Jennings.

‘The Thing’ Meets ‘Fast and Furious’

Release Date: October 30, 1987

Runtime: 96 minutes

Director: Jack Sholder

Writers: Jim Kouf

Producers: Dennis Harris, Gerald T. Olson, Jeffrey Klein, Lee Muhl, Michael L. Meltzer, Robert Shaye

The Hidden follows LAPD Sergeant Tom Beck (Michael Nouri) and FBI Agent Lloyd Gallagher (MacLachlan) as they investigate a peculiar series of crimes sweeping through Los Angeles. Ordinary citizens suddenly engage in violent criminal acts, including robberies and sports car thefts. The movie is punctuated by thrilling car chases and shootouts, set to a backdrop of classic 1980s rock music. However, what elevates The Hidden beyond a typical ’80s action film is its sci-fi premise. Unbeknownst to law enforcement, the criminal acts are committed by individuals possessed by a small, insect-like alien parasite that grants them superhuman strength and the ability to evade capture.

In a twist of complexity, the alien can move to new hosts when its existing body is damaged, leading to further challenges for the police. Tension arises as Sergeant Beck senses that Gallagher is concealing critical information about the nature of the crimes.

For those who appreciate practical effects, scenes depicting the parasite’s disturbing entrance and exit from its human hosts might evoke memories of the Nightmare on Elm Street series, which shares a production history with The Hidden. Directed by Jack Sholder, who also helmed Elm Street 2, the film includes body horror elements reminiscent of Cronenberg’s works and John Carpenter’s The Thing.

Kyle MacLachlan, the FBI, and Weird Investigations

Gallagher’s investigative role in The Hidden parallels that of Cooper in Twin Peaks. Both agents arrive on the West Coast from Washington D.C. to assist in solving a local mystery. Their unconventional strategies initially draw skepticism from local authorities; Cooper relies on the interpretations of his dreams, whereas Gallagher applies his alien knowledge to understand the crime wave caused by extraterrestrial influence. The alien parasite’s ability to control its hosts serves as an analogue to BOB, the sinister spirit in Twin Peaks.

The mannerisms of Gallagher, while distinct, echo Cooper’s. MacLachlan portrays Gallagher as composed and respectful, contrasting sharply with Beck’s intensity. Gallagher frequently communicates in direct, concise phrases, an attribute reminiscent of Cooper’s dialogue style. For instance, when pressed for information, Gallagher coolly states, “An explanation will not help you,” before repeating himself without alteration.

The primary distinction between Gallagher and Cooper lies in their temperaments. Gallagher’s demeanor throughout The Hidden is serious and unyielding, rarely breaking into a smile. In contrast, Cooper possesses a warmth and charm, often pausing to engage with landscapes and locals. Still, Gallagher exhibits a similar altruism, forming a bond with Beck that resonates, much like Cooper’s relationship with Sheriff Harry S. Truman, culminating in an unexpectedly emotional climax.

A ‘Hidden’ Gem

While The Hidden is not without its flaws and at times dives into cheesy territory, it remains an entertaining experience. The action sequences are sure to captivate fans of the genre, while the sci-fi aspects and inventive special effects resonate with enthusiasts of extraterrestrial narratives. Moreover, for Twin Peaks aficionados, watching MacLachlan in this earlier role serves as a fascinating glimpse into the development of Agent Cooper. Just as Lynch and MacLachlan viewed Cooper as an evolution of Jeffrey from Blue Velvet, so too can Twin Peaks enthusiasts regard Agent Gallagher as Cooper’s counterpart in an alternate reality.

The Hidden is accessible for rental or purchase on various streaming platforms, including Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, and Fandango at Home.

Source
movieweb.com