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.
racker has consistently delivered gripping narratives, and Season 2, Episode 13, titled “Neptune,” is no exception. This episode takes viewers on a thrilling journey through the bustling streets of New York City as Colter Shaw investigates a perplexing disappearance. While the episode excels in pacing and character development, it falls short in one crucial area that prevents it from achieving perfection.
Colter Shaw’s Urban Challenge
In “Neptune,” Colter Shaw (Justin Hartley) is hired to locate Claire (Alvina August), who vanished from the dressing room of an upscale clothing store in New York City. This setting presents unique challenges for Shaw, a character more accustomed to rural investigations. The urban landscape adds complexity to his tracking skills, showcasing his adaptability and resourcefulness.
A Staged Crime Scene
The investigation begins at Claire’s home, where an apparent robbery has taken place. However, Shaw quickly deduces that the scene is staged; valuables like cash and jewelry remain untouched, while a work computer is missing. This insight shifts the narrative from a simple robbery to a targeted abduction, heightening the episode’s suspense.
Surveillance Sabotage
Further complicating matters, surveillance footage reveals that the intruder expertly disabled the cameras, indicating a high level of sophistication. Shaw’s realization that this was no ordinary crime adds depth to the mystery and keeps viewers engaged as they follow his pursuit of the truth.
Personal Parallels
Throughout the episode, Shaw confronts echoes of his own family’s past, particularly the unresolved death of his father, Ashton Shaw. This personal subplot enriches the main narrative, offering viewers a deeper understanding of Shaw’s motivations and internal struggles.
The Missed Opportunity
Despite its strengths, “Neptune” misses a significant opportunity by not fully exploring the antagonist’s backstory. The episode hints at a complex motive behind Claire’s abduction but stops short of providing a satisfying exploration. This omission leaves a gap in the narrative that, if filled, could have elevated the episode to perfection.
Conclusion
“Neptune” stands out as a fast-paced and deeply enjoyable episode of Tracker, showcasing Colter Shaw’s investigative prowess in an urban setting. However, the lack of depth in the antagonist’s characterization prevents it from reaching its full potential. Addressing this aspect could have transformed a great episode into an exceptional one.
