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Critic’s Rating: 3.85 / 5.0
3.85
The latest episode of Tracker, set in Michigan for Season 2 Episode 18, dives into the mystery of a missing woman whose background holds substantial secrets.
This installment resonates with the atmosphere of a Lifetime movie, which in this context suggests a certain charm rather than a critique of quality.
It lands well within the typical expectations of the series, showcasing the familiar investigative elements fans have come to appreciate.
From the outset, the circumstances surrounding Riley’s disappearance were perplexing, marked by the unusual nature of her being targeted so expertly.
This situation could not be dismissed as mere coincidence; it was evident that a calculated approach led to her vanishing. Colter’s next challenge was to uncover the motivations behind the attention aimed at Riley.
Colter often collaborates with law enforcement agents connected to the victims, however indirectly. This rapport is beneficial as the insights he gains from them aid significantly in piecing together the victim’s life.
Katie’s knowledge of Riley, while not extensive, proved critical in illuminating the nuances of her relationships and personal struggles.
The narrative hinted that Riley was a young woman with potential, yet her return from the city implied a trauma she was reluctant to disclose. Family dynamics played a role in her silence, particularly with a mother who pushed her to where communication became strained. Cheryl, her supposed best friend, did little to clarify matters, maintaining an unsettling façade of ignorance about Riley’s situation.
From the very beginning, Cheryl raised suspicions with her lack of urgency when discussing her friend’s disappearance—a red flag that would catch the attention of any investigator.
Her lead to Riley’s locker and the unsettling anonymous letter prompted Colter to consider the troubling possibility of a stalker.
Throughout the episode, Riley’s attractiveness was mentioned repeatedly, but always with an undertone suggesting that this attention was not necessarily beneficial.
Colter’s resourcefulness often results in humorous moments, such as when he cleverly acquired a hotel manager’s keycard while still attempting to charm him into reviewing security footage.
Ultimately, Vincent provided Colter with a significant breakthrough by revealing that Riley, after making a monumental decision to leave New York, had hidden her reasons from everyone.
The plot thickened as Cheryl’s role became clearer; her delusions about her relationship with Riley added complexity to the case.
As the story unfolded, Cheryl began to emerge as a more central figure—potentially as a stalker or at least someone deeply entwined in Riley’s troubles. Her earlier aggressive actions, including damaging Vincent’s vehicle, intimated a more sinister involvement in Riley’s situation. The condition of her home, suspiciously spotless, suggested a staged setup that could mislead investigators.
Colter showcases a remarkable skill set, adept at noticing details that others overlook, including discrepancies in the written messages found at the scene.
Cheryl, while not a physical threat to Riley, engaged in manipulative behaviors that revealed her obsession, making her a key player in the unfolding drama.
Discovering that Riley was pregnant and that Cheryl was fixated on her presented a disturbing angle that unfolded into a broader narrative of desperation.
The rapport between Randy and Bobby enhanced the episode, as they’ve become an appealing duo. Their teamwork is refreshing, adding depth while ensuring that the supporting cast continues to receive their share of focus.
Had they not found Cheryl after her abrupt disappearance, the outcome for Riley could have been very different.
The episode’s premise, reminiscent of common Lifetime movie tropes about women seizing babies, unfolded predictably yet effectively, particularly upon revealing the nursery and medical preparations.
Tyler and Monica’s unsettling backstory indicated that their desperation for a family drove them to extremes, showcasing how far individuals could fall when faced with overwhelming need.
Cheryl was being used as a scapegoat within a poorly conceived plan, highlighting the careless execution of their criminal intentions.
Colter and Katie demonstrated remarkable speed in connecting the dots between Cheryl and the pair, leading to their downfall.
It was somewhat surprising to see that it took two attempts for Colter’s team to realize there was more to uncover in the house. This oversight highlights the unpredictable nature of investigations.
Tyler’s surrender for his wife painted a complex portrayal of sacrifice, while Colter’s gentle yet firm interrogation style provided a stark contrast to the typical confrontations depicted in crime dramas.
Despite previous episodes showcasing intense physical confrontations, this one relied on psychological depth and emotional appeal, with the tension rooted in desperation rather than action.
However, the pacing of the conclusion felt rushed, as Colter chose to take Riley home rather than directly to the hospital, missing an opportunity for an emotional reunion and a thorough wrap-up of her story.
This tendency to conclude episodes more abruptly has become a pattern, raising questions about the show’s narrative strategy:
Tracker Notes
The budding dynamic between Katie and Colter hints at an undercurrent of personal attraction, bringing an additional layer to their partnership.
As for Velma, her purpose on the show deserves consideration as the series progresses into its final episodes.
Given the proximity of the Harpers’ neighbors, one wonders if they noticed the unusual activity surrounding the introduction of a hospital bed into their home.
The end of this season approaches, with anticipation for the return of Rory next week.
There’s a hint of a deeper narrative regarding the Shaw family, which remains to be seen if it will capture the audience’s interest after a long hiatus.
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Tracker airs on CBS at 8/7c on Sundays.
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