Tracker’s second season continues its episodic trend this week, with one of the most enjoyable episodes so far this season. While I accurately predicted that “Neptune” wouldn’t be making a lot of use of Colter’s (Justin Harley) special skillset, as it is set in Manhattan, it did manage to present an engaging case that makes good use of the whole team, and not just Colter’s good luck. The premise for this episode is a fantastic one, as the episode starts with a seemingly average woman disappearing seemingly into thin air from within the dressing room of a clothing store. However, it quickly reveals that she is actually an agent with an off-the-books government agency involved in counter-terrorism, and Colter might well be in over his head.
While not quite as enjoyable as “Nightingale”, “Neptune” is Tracker done right. The episode revels in the complexity of the case, everyone on Team Tracker has a vital role to play, and there are some subtle tie-ins to the Shaw Family Mystery. The one truly disappointing aspect, though, is that Colter doesn’t contact his brother to make use of his wealth of Black Ops experience. From the moment secret government goodness starts, I kept expecting Russell (Jensen Ackles) to show up, and the fact that he didn’t was a serious missed opportunity for the show.
Finally, Team Tracker Gets A Real Chance To Shine
But I Don’t Think Bobby Is Coming Back While the most recent episodes of Tracker have seen Reenie (Fiona Rene) get a decent amount of screentime, I’ve been increasingly concerned this might become the Reenie and Colter Show, but “Neptune” does a fantastic job of getting the whole team back in play. The episode returns to the formula of having Velma (Abby McEnany) find the case for Colter (and she gets more than a two-line appearance this time), and both Reenie and Randy (Chris Lee) get to put their own skills to use. The two even have a scene together (via phone), making Randy a bigger part of the larger team. ‘Neptune’ does a fantastic job of getting the whole team back in play.
The show is, quite simply, better when Colter has other characters to play off, and Tracker should keep walking that line between Colter being a one-man show, and making him entirely reliant on his hackers and contacts. Not all episodes manage to find this balance, but “Neptune” absolutely does. The downside, of course, is that it’s getting increasingly unlikely that Bobby (Eric Graise) is coming back. Randy is now proving his worth, hacking into government computers with ease, and the more he becomes a key part of the team, the lower the chances that Bobby reappears.
In the latest installment of CBS’s “Tracker,” Season 2, Episode 13 titled “Neptune,” viewers are thrust into a high-octane narrative that intertwines espionage, personal betrayal, and relentless action. The episode showcases the series’ ability to blend intricate storytelling with adrenaline-pumping sequences, keeping audiences glued to their screens. However, amidst its many strengths, “Neptune” narrowly misses an opportunity that could have elevated it to perfection.
A Mysterious Disappearance in the Big Apple
The episode begins with Clare and her husband Logan enjoying a day in New York City. Their outing takes a dark turn when Clare vanishes from a dressing room, leaving behind all her personal belongings. Logan’s desperation leads him to Colter Shaw, offering a substantial reward for Clare’s safe return. This sets the stage for a complex investigation that delves deeper than a simple missing person case.
Uncovering a Covert Operation
Colter’s investigation reveals that Clare’s workplace, SLD Publishing, is a front for a covert counter-terrorism agency. The discovery of multiple executed employees indicates a severe breach. Clare, under the codename Neptune, was monitoring satellite data and had stumbled upon a significant anomaly before her disappearance.
The Espionage Web Tightens
As Colter digs deeper, he uncovers a conspiracy involving intelligence agencies and a deep betrayal within Clare’s organization. The episode masterfully portrays the tension and danger inherent in espionage, with Colter navigating a labyrinth of deceit and peril.
A High-Stakes Rescue Mission
The climax of the episode features a tense rescue operation where Colter saves Logan from captivity. The action sequences are executed with precision, showcasing the show’s commitment to delivering thrilling content.
The Missed Opportunity
Despite its strengths, “Neptune” misses a crucial opportunity to delve deeper into Colter’s backstory. The episode hints at unresolved issues from his past but stops short of providing substantial revelations. This omission leaves a gap in character development that could have added depth to the narrative.
Conclusion
“Neptune” stands as a testament to “Tracker’s” ability to weave intricate plots with high-intensity action. While it excels in many areas, the episode’s reluctance to explore Colter’s past prevents it from achieving perfection. Nevertheless, it remains a deeply enjoyable chapter in the series, promising more thrilling adventures ahead.
