As Tracker’s second season nears its end (with only three more episodes to go), “Exodus” is a disappointingly slow entry. But it does a great job of setting up what could be a more interesting side plot to come. My frustrations with this episode are largely around the pacing, but may also be because it suffers in comparison to recent episodes like “Neptune” and “Nightingale”, which do a great job of sucking us in from the get-go. Meanwhile, “Exodus” takes a little too long to get to the point. The teasers for this episode promised dark magic in New Orleans, and while that does eventually show up, it takes something of a meandering route to get there and then provides all the answers at once. There are a couple of minor twists, but it lacks the twisty, atmospheric goodness of the great Tracker episodes. And unfortunately, I’m getting a little tired of Good Guy Colter. The more ethically ambiguous Reenie (Fiona Rene) is increasingly the best part of the show, and I’m glad that she’s busy with her morally gray side project. It may end up being what saves the end of the season.
“Exodus” Moves At A Snail’s Pace – Even Up To The Final Shootout. Tracker Fails To Deliver On The Spooky Premise I was excited to see Tracker go down a bit of a paranormal avenue again, as some of my favorite episodes (including “Aurora” and “Preternatural”) lean heavily on this. I was holding onto some hope that this might drift away from the city of New Orleans into the bayous, where Colter’s (Justin Hartley) skills would come into play. Sadly, though, this episode stays firmly within the city limits and puts Colter in basic action-hero mode, swinging his gun at everything and kicking down doors. (Why the man hasn’t learned how to pick locks is beyond me.) There is some dark magic going on, with the introduction of a practice known as Infini, but unlike “Monster”, “Exodus” avoids all gore, and manages to also steer clear of any real spookiness or tension. Most of the episode sees him running around New Orleans on a very basic whodunnit before all the dark magic-related reveals are packed into the very end. The episode should have leaned hard on the magical sacrifice elements from the start, making us wonder if there was real magic at play. Without that, it became a very formulaic entry into Tracker canon.
Tracker has consistently delivered gripping narratives that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. However, Season 2, Episode 14, titled “Exodus,” takes a different approach, immersing us in a slow-burning mystery intertwined with elements of dark magic. This episode transports protagonist Colter Shaw to the enigmatic streets of New Orleans, where he confronts a case unlike any before.
Setting the Scene: New Orleans’ Mystique
New Orleans, renowned for its vibrant music scene and rich cultural tapestry, serves as the perfect backdrop for this episode’s unfolding drama. The city’s deep-rooted associations with voodoo and the supernatural add layers of intrigue and suspense to the narrative. As Colter navigates through the city’s shadowy alleys and historic landmarks, viewers are drawn into an atmosphere thick with mystery and anticipation.
The Disappearance: A Teenage Musician Vanishes
The central plot revolves around the sudden disappearance of a talented teenage musician. Known for his soulful performances in the heart of New Orleans, his absence sends ripples of concern throughout the community. Friends and family are left in distress, prompting Colter to delve into the case with his characteristic determination.
Collaboration with Local Law Enforcement
Recognizing the complexities of the local culture and the nuances of the case, Colter teams up with Detective Veach, portrayed by Marci T. House. This partnership bridges Colter’s outsider perspective with Veach’s intimate knowledge of New Orleans, creating a dynamic duo poised to unravel the mystery. Their collaboration highlights the challenges and benefits of combining different investigative approaches.
Unveiling Dark Magic: Reality or Illusion?
As the investigation progresses, Colter and Veach uncover unsettling ties to dark magic practices. Symbols, rituals, and whispered legends suggest that the musician’s disappearance may be linked to supernatural forces. This revelation blurs the lines between reality and folklore, challenging Colter’s rational mindset and pushing him into unfamiliar territory.
Pacing: A Deliberate Slow Burn
Unlike previous episodes that thrust viewers into immediate action, “Exodus” adopts a more measured pace. This deliberate storytelling choice allows for a deeper exploration of New Orleans’ ambiance and the complexities of the case. While some may find the tempo frustratingly slow, it serves to immerse the audience fully into the episode’s eerie and contemplative mood.
Character Development: Colter’s Introspective Journey
Throughout “Exodus,” we witness a more introspective side of Colter. Confronted with phenomena that defy his usual logic, he grapples with self-doubt and the limitations of his expertise. This internal conflict adds depth to his character, showcasing his vulnerability and adaptability in the face of the unknown.
Visual Storytelling: Capturing New Orleans’ Essence
The cinematography in this episode deserves commendation. Sweeping shots of the French Quarter, dimly lit voodoo shops, and haunting bayous encapsulate the soul of New Orleans. These visuals not only enhance the narrative but also serve as a love letter to the city’s unique allure.
Community and Cultural Sensitivity
“Exodus” delves into practices and beliefs intrinsic to New Orleans’ identity. The episode approaches these themes with respect and sensitivity, avoiding clichés and instead offering a nuanced portrayal of the community’s relationship with the supernatural. This thoughtful representation enriches the storyline and fosters a deeper connection with the audience.
Tension and Suspense: Building to a Climax
The slow pacing gradually escalates tension, culminating in moments of heightened suspense. Each clue uncovered and each shadow encountered adds to the mounting sense of dread and anticipation. This crescendo keeps viewers engaged, eagerly awaiting the resolution of the mystery.
Resolution: Answers Unearthed
As the episode reaches its climax, Colter and Veach piece together the puzzle, revealing the truth behind the musician’s disappearance. The resolution intertwines elements of human folly and cultural mystique, leaving viewers both satisfied and contemplative. It underscores the show’s ability to weave complex narratives that resonate on multiple levels.
Audience Reception: Divided Opinions
“Exodus” has elicited mixed reactions from the audience. While some appreciate the atmospheric build-up and deep character exploration, others express frustration over the slower narrative progression. This division highlights the subjective nature of storytelling and the diverse preferences of the show’s fanbase.
Comparisons to Previous Episodes
When juxtaposed with earlier episodes, “Exodus” stands out for its tonal shift and thematic depth. The incorporation of supernatural elements and the emphasis on setting distinguish it from more action-driven installments, showcasing the show’s versatility and willingness to experiment with different storytelling techniques.
Implications for Future Episodes
The events of “Exodus” may have lasting implications for Colter’s character development and the series’ narrative arc. His exposure to unexplainable phenomena could influence his approach to future cases, potentially opening the door to more episodes that explore the intersection of reality and the supernatura.
Conclusion
Tracker Season 2, Episode 14, “Exodus,” offers a contemplative departure from the series’ usual tempo, immersing viewers in the enigmatic charm
