Holder’s assigned to the Ashley Kwon case — a girl whose throat had been savagely cut, same as Seward’s wife. The slick detective pays a visit to his old pal Linden in order to get some information about the Seward case files, but leaves empty-handed, although she’s shown to be still in possession of them (damn it, Linden, you had one job!).
The Killing isn’t great for its storytelling devices — I had already deduced who the Rosie Larsen killer was by the fourth episode of the first season. Sure, it was just a mere guess, but it was spot on. What truly makes the show worth watching is its characterization — in this episode, we’re shown just how Linden’s obsession works and how rapidly it escalates when she feels there’s a case she can solve. Her stubbornness and fear of commitment come from within her core, and I hope screenwriter and showrunner Veena Sud further explores the character’s nature.
Elias Koteas plays James Skinner, Linden’s former partner and the d-bag who charged Seward with murder. We only get to see him for a few minutes, but his wife does warn Sarah to stay away from them. Right, like she’s going to go ahead and do as she’s told. However, there’s something intriguing about Skinner.
Why would he be so adamant about charging Ray Seward? It’s said that he called the alleged murderer a coward at the trial. I’m not saying he’s dirty or just has a personal vendetta against Seward, but this is exactly how the Larsen case started — Rosie seemed to have been murdered by a close friend for personal reasons, and then there was a conspiracy that involved some of Seattle’s most powerful and influential individuals, as well as an escort service and the mob. Who’s to say Skinner didn’t have ulterior motives?
I have high hopes for the show’s third season. I love what they’re doing with Holder — the man finally seems content with his life. Even though he hasn’t quit smoking (which he lied to Linden about) and doesn’t quite fit in with the regular detectives, he appears to be sure of himself and without any regrets. Well, we don’t know that, yet. There’s still much of Holder’s past to be explored and revealed, especially about his time as a junkie, and I guarantee his working and personal relationship with Linden will be tested once again.
What did you think about the season premiere of The Killing? Let us know in the comments below.
