Just as Twin Peaks originally served to challenge the popular soap opera format of the late 80s, The Return aims to explore revivalism and our obsession with nostalgia-driven culture.

It confronts our desire to return to a past we perceive as better; One filled with damn fine coffee and cherry pie. But what does it truly mean to return?

Much of our time in Twin Peaks highlights how the town and its people have changed, for better or for worse. We see old mistakes repeated by a new generation, while others work to “shovel themselves out of the shit.” There's an inherent sadness that comes with seeing our beloved characters come to terms with their loss of time, but I believe the show presents a satisfying variety in how its characters choose to deal with it. Norma, Ed and Bobby are the strongest examples of growth and acceptance, while Shelly is doomed to repeat her mistakes that pass on to her daughter. 

Despite its bleakness, The Return feels far from nihilistic. It's a common theme in the work of Lynch to shine light on both the beauty and darkness of society. For every Richard, there's a Bushnell. Many of the seemingly random interactions at the Roadhouse serve to outline various transgressions within our society, from infidelity, violence and the lack of access to healthcare (as seen with the woman suffering from a rash). At the same time, Carl Rodd of the trailer park offers hope; refusing to let his tenants scrape by selling their blood just to afford rent.

I'd like to add that despite being sadder, gorier, and more unsettling than its predecessor, The Return manages to be just as effective in its humour. There's a profound maturity to it in how scenes are given room to breathe, allowing his distinct comedic style to flourish. Key character such as the Mitchem brothers, Dougie, and Gordon Cole are an absolute joy to witness on the screen. It's unbelievably bold to position Twin Peaks' most beloved character as something of a comedic plot-device yet the show makes it work and sticks the landing over 15 episodes later.

Above all, the ending of Twin Peaks conveys the heart-breaking truth about trying to relive or change the past. Even with the ability to traverse time, as Cooper is able to, evil and trauma cannot simply be erased. To attempt it is to meddle with forces beyond comprehension. The final, harrowing shriek of Carrie Page makes it painfully clear that she was only harmed by the Hubris of her determined hero, and that trauma will simply follow you even through timelines. There’s a compelling meta-commentary in this too. That to erase Laura Palmer’s death would also erase everything that made Twin Peaks what it is.

Beyond the narrative itself, The Return also feels like a peek into the mind of an older David Lynch. He uses the show to respond to its own criticism (James was always cool), a way of showcasing his favourite music, as well as expressing his ever-evolving perspective on the current social climate. It's a miracle that this was even conceived and it stands just as boldly and unconventionally as original Twin Peaks was in its own time.