Season 1, Episode 1: Pilot

Welcome to Back to the Double R, a podcast where four fans watch (and rewatch) David Lynch & Mark Frost’s legendary TV event “Twin Peaks.” We’re in it for the long haul—every episode, with a few special detours along the way—so hop in.

Who are we? Longtime fans of all things weird and awesome, we each bring a unique perspective. Damon and Jonathan have watched every episode multiple times; Jennifer and Colin watched back in the day, but haven’t seen Season 3. 

We assume you’ve seen the episode we’re discussing each week and, while we will explore themes that run throughout the series, we won’t spoil future episodes. So if you want a “fresh” rewatch, an expert’s deep dive, or a first-time mind-trip, you’re good to go.  

This week, it’s the episode that started it all, the modestly monikered “Pilot,” which originally aired on April 8, 1990. Jennifer, an expert on teen TV and pop culture, breaks down the opening scene. Jonathan, our “steel trap” for production details, asks what makes Pete Martel tick. Colin, with his penchant for structure, is horrified—in the good way!—by eruptions of darkness. Super-watcher Damon describes the allure of Lynch’s dream-like storytelling and how the world of Twin Peaks is created. Each week we end with a “twist.” And special thanks to Pittsburgh’s Silencio for the amazing music you’ll hear throughout our show!

S1, E1 NOTES 

David Lynch, co-creator, writer, director

Mark Frost, co-creator, writer, producer

Riverdale (2017 to present, CW television series; comics-based teen soap)

Pretty Little Liars (2010-2017, ABC Family television series)

Dark Shadows (1966-1971, ABC television series; supernatural dramedy)

West Side Story (1961, film)

Jack Nance (Pete Martel)

Eraserhead (1977, film, written & directed by David Lynch)

Beverly Hills, 90210 (1990-2000, Fox television series; teen soap)

Dallas (1978-1991, CBS television series; nighttime soap)

The Fugitive (1963-1967, ABC television series; mystery thriller)

Blue Velvet (1986, film, written & directed by David Lynch)

TAD (Seattle grunge band)

The Crocodile Cafe (Seattle music club)

Brigadoon (1954, film, starring Gene Kelly, directed by Vincente Minelli)

Pixies: Dolittle (1989, album)

Lost (2004-2010, ABC television series; famously confounding)

Madmen (2007-2015, AMC television series; 1960s period drama)

Thanks very much to the incredible Chris Kalb for our logos and banners!

And, as always, you’ll hear music from the Badalamentiesque Pittsburgh band Silencio throughout our podcast and with our lasting gratitude.