Tracker Season 2, Episode 18, “Collision” feels like a filler episode until the CBS show can get to its season-ending action. The story is serviceable, and viewers get a clear beginning and end to the case of the week, so it’s not necessarily wasted time. But it just doesn’t feel like the best use of their time. Colter Shaw has had more unique and more dynamic investigations than this. In “Collision,” ex-model Riley Adams is run off the road shortly after moving back home to Michigan — and then disappears. At the request of Riley’s mother, Colter teams up with the local sheriff’s department to locate her, which requires uncovering Riley’s big secret. However, viewers will likely guess what it is (and guess everyone else’s secrets) well before they’re revealed. This is an episode that’s going through the motions with bigger things on the horizon.
Tracker Season 2, Episode 18, drops us right in the middle of yet another action-packed adventure, but this time, the show takes a deeper dive into the world of classic TV tropes. From the villain monologues to the predictable plot twists, this episode seems to play by the book. However, there’s one thing in this episode that stands out, and it might just be the key to making this episode unforgettable. Let’s break down the highs, the lows, and what truly shines through.
A TV Trope-Filled Quest: What to Expect in Tracker Season 2, Episode 18
In this episode, the audience is served a generous helping of familiar tropes that we’ve all seen in countless shows before. While some may find this a bit too safe or formulaic, others might enjoy the comfort of the predictability. Let’s look at the common TV tropes that make an appearance.
The Reluctant Hero Returns
The reluctant hero trope is back in full force. We’ve seen this countless times in previous episodes, but Tracker Season 2, Episode 18 does it with a little more flair. Our protagonist is once again forced to take up arms against a new threat, despite their desire for peace. This trope works because it taps into the human experience of having to face uncomfortable truths or responsibilities.
Why the Reluctant Hero Works: A Deeper Look
The reluctance of the hero to get involved in the battle often mirrors what viewers feel in their own lives. It’s that age-old struggle: do you fight or walk away? This theme resonates with us because it reflects the conflict we all face when deciding whether to take action or stay passive. The reluctant hero always wins in the end, but it’s the journey there that keeps us hooked.
The Villain Who Monologues
Let’s be honest—how many times have we watched a villain go on a lengthy speech about their evil plans? Well, Episode 18 delivers this classic trope in full force. The villain has all the time in the world to explain their intentions, giving the protagonist just enough time to make their move. While this trope can be predictable, it’s still entertaining when done right.
A Moment of Suspense Amidst the Monologue
As much as we love to poke fun at villain monologues, they do create a sense of suspense. The villain’s speech often serves as a countdown, letting us know that the clock is ticking before the action reaches its peak. It’s like watching a ticking bomb in slow motion—just enough time for the hero to swoop in and save the day.
The Quest for a MacGuffin
A MacGuffin is a plot device that drives the characters’ motivations, but ultimately doesn’t have any real significance to the overall story. In Tracker Season 2, Episode 18, the hero embarks on yet another quest to obtain an item of great power. This trope has been done to death, but what makes it work here is how the quest ties into the character’s personal journey.
The Personal Stakes Behind the MacGuffin
The MacGuffin isn’t just an object—it’s tied to the hero’s past. As they struggle to obtain it, we learn more about their history, making the quest feel a lot more personal. It’s not just about saving the world; it’s about saving themselves. The addition of personal stakes elevates the trope from mere plot device to something that feels meaningful.
Predictable Plot Twists: Do They Work?
If there’s one thing this episode does well, it’s throwing in a predictable plot twist. For many viewers, this might feel like a missed opportunity, as the twist is something we saw coming from a mile away. But sometimes, it’s not the twist itself that matters—it’s how the characters react to it.
The Character Reactions: What Makes the Twist Worth It
While the twist may be predictable, the way the characters respond to it is what keeps things interesting. Watching them process this new revelation and adjust their plans adds depth to the story. It’s the emotional aftermath of the twist that matters more than the twist itself.
A Sidekick with Unexpected Depth
Every hero needs a sidekick, and in this episode, the sidekick gets a surprising amount of screen time and character development. It’s a welcome change from the typical “sidekick as comic relief” trope. Instead, this sidekick brings a lot of emotional depth to the table, and their motivations feel just as important as those of the hero.
H3: The Sidekick’s Hidden Agenda
As the sidekick’s backstory unfolds, we discover that their motivations are far more complicated than we first thought. They’re not just there to help the hero; they have their own goals and desires. This development adds an interesting layer to the story and keeps the audience invested in both characters.
Amidst all the tropes and predictable moments, there is one shining star in this episode: a heartfelt, emotionally charged moment that elevates the entire storyline. It’s a moment where the characters drop the bravado, and we see them for who they truly are. This moment may be brief, but it’s enough to remind us why we care about these characters in the first place.
The Power of Emotional Connection
What makes this moment so powerful is the emotional connection it fosters between the characters and the audience. We’ve followed these characters through thick and thin, and when they finally share a vulnerable moment, it hits home. It’s a reminder that, no matter how predictable the story gets, the emotional core of the show is what truly matters.
Why the Great Moment Works So Well
The beauty of this emotional moment lies in its simplicity. There are no grand speeches, no over-the-top action sequences—just two characters connecting on a deeper level. It’s a moment that transcends the tropes and reminds us why we tune in every week: to see real, human emotions unfold.
A Mixed Bag of Tropes and Character Growth
While Episode 18 leans heavily on TV tropes, it also offers glimpses of character growth and emotional depth. This mixture of the familiar and the fresh makes the episode stand out in a season filled with formulaic storytelling. It’s not a perfect episode, but it strikes a balance between comfort and innovation.
Balancing Tropes with Fresh Ideas
The key to this episode’s success is how it balances familiar tropes with new ideas and character developments. If the show relied solely on tropes, it would feel stale. But by adding depth to the characters and their relationships, the episode breathes new life into well-worn storytelling techniques.
Conclusion: Tracker Season 2, Episode 18 – A Journey Worth Taking
Tracker Season 2, Episode 18 may be packed with familiar tropes, but it’s also a testament to the show’s ability to mix old and new. From the reluctant hero to the villain monologue, this episode plays on well-known TV conventions—but it’s the emotional moments and character growth that make it truly special. If you’re a fan of the series, this episode is definitely worth watching.
