11 Comments
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David's avatar

Just rewatched this about a month ago - still holds up well. Best work by McConaughey and Harrelson. I don’t watch all the episodes in a single sitting, but when I watch it I always get through it in a single weekend. Good procedural, lots of weird, and a taste of Louisiana (albeit aluminum-y). Might be the best single season series ever. Good review.

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Philip “Big Philly” Smith's avatar

Thanks, David. I'm due for a rewatch, so I'm glad you vouch for it holding up.

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The Reverend Gonzo's avatar

Excellent recap of one of the finest seasons of television to ever air. I rewatch the first season every few months for the reasons you describe, it is a metaphysical ride down I-10 in Louisiana that is expertly written and cast. My favorite episode is when Cohle meets up with his old buddy from the Iron Crusaders and has to do a job with him, the 5 minute long continuous shot at the end is an utter masterpiece of cinematography. the other seasons are awful, except for Collin Farrell in the 2nd season; he played a coked out crooked cop to perfection.

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Philip “Big Philly” Smith's avatar

Thank you. Great insights. I really need to rewatch it.

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Reluctant Convert's avatar

Thanks for shedding light on this. One of the best stories out there. I’m always surprised that it doesn’t get more recognition for the reasons you mentioned.

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Philip “Big Philly” Smith's avatar

It has a strong cult following but I agree. My guess is the 3 lousy seasons that followed diminished interest in the first season.

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Reluctant Convert's avatar

For those who want go down the rabbit hole (with spoilers) this is a wonderful exploration of the “pyschosphere” Cohle mentions. https://vigilantcitizen.com/moviesandtv/deeper-meaning-true-detective-season-one/

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Teddi Deppner's avatar

Thanks for the review -- wouldn't have known to check this one out. I'm a fan of the acting talents of the two starring actors, so that's a bonus, too. Too bad it's not currently on Amazon or its subchannels (my only streaming service at the moment). But it's available for $20 on DVD, so there's that.

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Philip “Big Philly” Smith's avatar

Whatever it takes. Is it on HBO Max or whatever it's now called? Thanks for following. Subscribe for more good stuff.

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John's avatar

Nice shout out to TL. Thanks.

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Philip “Big Philly” Smith's avatar

It's funny, even if TD downright plagiarized Ligotti, the show got me to buy most of his books. But yeah I don't think you can write about TD without discussing Ligotti and Chambers.

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