While it was great to see Dory back (even if just for a scene), we needed her, Colter, and Russell all to team-up and finally tackle this issue head on. More than anything, Colter and Dory’s scene in “Rules of the Game” felt like a recap of events from Season 1 (and Season 2’s “Ontological Shock”) more than any real progression. It felt like the show was saying, “Hey, remember this tease we left you with forever ago? Yeah, we’re finally getting back to that.” While Tracker has had a killer second season when it comes to standalone cases, this is where the show has been suffering the most. Aside from the cold case Colter investigated earlier this year (which felt like a necessary side quest), the show is terribly non-committal when it comes to any long-term backstory. Because of that, it almost feels like we’ve gotten strung along. The fact that none of the cliffhangers from the Season 1 finale were addressed until now (and we still don’t have any real answers) is simply baffling.
Don’t misunderstand, slow-burn mythologies can be great. Look at The X-Files or even the early years of Smallville or Supernatural. These shows prove that it’s entirely possible to build up a series mythology over time while simultaneously establishing the leading characters. Standalone episodes are a lost art, and each new and exciting case is part of Tracker’s charm. But there is a huge difference between slow progress and treading water. Season 1 only contained 13 episodes, while Season 2 had 20 to work with. Considering that the first season never failed to expand on or pepper in elements of Colter’s past and upbringing, it seems quite odd that Season 2 didn’t follow suit. When the season started, it felt like we were on the right track, but in the whopping 17 episodes (more than the entire first season) between Russell’s last appearance and Dory’s return, we’ve only been given a few small comments about the larger Tracker story. For casual viewers, it would be quite easy to forget most of what we learned last season considering how much time has passed.
When you think of a gripping TV show or film, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? Is it the unique characters, the thrilling plots, or the intricately woven backstories? The show Tracker has sparked quite the debate when it comes to balancing standalone cases and deep, ongoing backstory arcs. For fans and critics alike, Tracker has been a masterclass in how to make a case-of-the-week structure work while still teasing overarching narratives.
While Tracker has managed to find success with its standalone cases, there’s a growing consensus that the backstory can’t always take a backseat, especially when it comes to character development and building suspense. But why is this so important? Let’s explore why standalone cases might be the key to Tracker’s success, yet its backstory plays an undeniable role in keeping the audience hooked.
What Makes Standalone Cases So Effective in ‘Tracker’?
The Power of a Self-Contained Storyline
Standalone cases in Tracker are one of the key reasons the show has such a loyal following. Every episode feels like a fresh start, with new problems, new mysteries, and a new twist. This structure allows the writers to explore various genres—whether it’s a crime drama, thriller, or even psychological mystery—without being tied to an overarching plot. It’s like having a satisfying mini-movie each week.
The benefit of this is clear: viewers can jump into any episode without needing to follow a specific timeline or remember complex plot points. For those with limited time or casual viewers, Tracker‘s standalone format is a convenient and engaging way to enjoy the series.
Appealing to the ‘Case-of-the-Week’ Audience
The ‘case-of-the-week’ format has always been popular, from classics like Law and Order to modern hits like Sherlock. People love a satisfying resolution by the end of an episode. In Tracker, the case is often solved by the credits roll, providing closure while leaving the audience satisfied. These self-contained stories allow for a quick yet engaging experience, which is perfect for binge-watchers or viewers who don’t have the time to invest in long-running, intricate plots.
But What About the Backstory?
Building Character Development Through Backstory
While the standalone cases are certainly the bread and butter of Tracker, they can’t always carry the weight of the entire show. For one, backstories help build emotional depth. Take our protagonist: without knowing where they’ve come from, their motivations, fears, and internal conflicts, how can we understand why they act the way they do? Sure, we might love a good mystery, but we also crave the emotional investment that a backstory provides.
The secret to Tracker’s balance lies in its strategic integration of backstory elements. Even when the central case is standalone, glimpses into the past keep the audience emotionally engaged. These breadcrumbs of backstory are what turn a simple case into something more meaningful.
Tying the Past to the Present
In Tracker, the past often reappears in subtle ways that keep the storyline intriguing. Perhaps a character has unresolved issues with a previous case, or their backstory is slowly revealed through a particular investigation. These small, intriguing bits of information keep us hooked and make the standalone episodes feel part of a bigger narrative. Without these small teases, each episode might feel more disconnected, leaving the viewer wishing for something deeper.
Backstories Are Key for Long-Term Engagement
As much as standalone cases are fun and engaging, viewers start craving more than just episodic satisfaction. The longevity of Tracker is inextricably tied to its ability to maintain a balance between standalone episodes and overarching personal stories. Think of it this way: if the audience knows there’s more to the characters’ lives than what meets the eye, it creates a sense of curiosity that keeps people tuning in. It’s like eating a piece of a larger puzzle, where every small piece makes the final image more complete.
Standalone Episodes: The Key to ‘Tracker’s’ Accessibility
Appealing to New Viewers
A major advantage of Tracker’s approach is its accessibility. New viewers can watch any episode without feeling left out or overwhelmed by past events. In today’s streaming world, where shows are released all at once, this is a major bonus. Standalone episodes allow Tracker to attract a broader audience—whether they’re tuning in on a whim or simply looking for a new show to binge.
Perfect for Busy Lifestyles
Let’s face it: not everyone has time to commit to a serialized show with a complex backstory. Standalone cases give viewers the ability to engage with the show at their own pace, whenever they have time. Each episode is designed to be easily digested, making Tracker the perfect companion for viewers with busy schedules.
Why a Strong Backstory is Essential for Depth in ‘Tracker’
Without the Backstory, We Miss the Bigger Picture
While Tracker’s standalone structure allows it to maintain a broad appeal, without a backstory, we miss out on a deeper connection to the show’s world. The rich layers of history—whether they’re about personal loss, professional conflict, or long-standing rivalries—are what ultimately tie everything together. The backstory transforms an episodic mystery into an ongoing emotional journey that resonates with the audience on a personal level.
Creating Emotional Investment Through Past Events
One of the reasons Tracker can be so captivating is its ability to weave emotional investment into its backstory. A recurring antagonist, a personal vendetta, or a tragic event from a character’s past—these elements make the stakes feel real and urgent. When the characters are facing off against more than just the villain of the week, the tension is heightened. The audience isn’t just invested in the outcome of a case, they’re invested in how that case impacts the character’s growth, journey, and ultimate resolution.
Striking the Right Balance Between Case and Backstory
The Art of Layering the Narrative
To maintain this balance, Tracker does a brilliant job of layering its narrative. While each episode tells a compelling standalone story, it often integrates elements of the character’s backstory without overshadowing the case at hand. Think of it like a multi-course meal—each standalone case is a delicious appetizer, while the backstory serves as the main course that ties everything together. Both are equally important, but it’s the perfect combination that leaves you wanting more.
Pacing the Backstory for Maximum Impact
The key to this balance is pacing. Tracker knows exactly when to delve into the backstory and when to pull back and focus on the case. By carefully revealing bits of the past across several episodes, the show keeps the viewer intrigued without overwhelming them with information. Each new revelation feels earned, building anticipation for the next layer of the story.
Conclusion: Why Both Standalone Cases and Backstory Are Crucial for ‘Tracker’
In conclusion, Tracker proves that standalone cases and backstory elements are not mutually exclusive—they can coexist to create a show that is both episodically satisfying and emotionally engaging. Standalone episodes allow Tracker to capture the audience’s attention with fresh stories and new challenges, while the backstory provides the depth that transforms these cases into a larger narrative.
By balancing both elements, Tracker continues to prove that the backstory may not always be the star of the show, but it’s certainly the backbone that holds everything together. As the show evolves, it will be exciting to see how these two aspects continue to shape its success.
